Govt retains fuel prices to fund infrastructure projects in Balochistan

The federal government announced on Tuesday that fuel prices will remain unchanged for the next two weeks, with the resulting savings allocated to major infrastructure development projects across the country, particularly in Balochistan.

Chairing a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the government had decided not to pass on the benefit of reduced international petroleum prices to the public.

Instead, the savings will be redirected toward national development initiatives.

Among the key projects highlighted was the upgradation of the N-25 highway, which connects Chaman, Quetta, Kalat, Khuzdar, and Karachi.

The premier said the highway will be dualized and rebuilt to motorway standards to improve connectivity in Balochistan.

Petrol will remain priced at Rs254.63 per litre, while high-speed diesel will continue to be sold at Rs258.64 per litre, following the cabinet’s decision.

Sharif also announced the construction of the M-6 and M-9 motorways, linking Sukkur to Hyderabad and Hyderabad to Karachi, respectively.

Additionally, the second phase of the Kachhi Canal project will be completed using the same savings from fuel prices. This phase is expected to irrigate vast areas of land in Balochistan.

The prime minister emphasided that these initiatives aim to promote equitable development and prosperity, especially in Balochistan.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fair resource distribution among the provinces, describing them as “four brothers” working together for the nation's progress.