Petrol price hike troubles Pak 

Islamabad, March 11: A sharp petrol price hike of about Rs 55 per litre in Pakistan in March 2026 has led to long queues at fuel stations, rising transport fares and widespread public frustration. The government blamed global oil volatility and tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving the US, Iran and Israel, which threaten stability in the Strait of Hormuz, a route carrying nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. However, a Modern Diplomacy report says the crisis also exposes Pakistan’s structural energy weaknesses. The country remains heavily dependent on imported petroleum, making domestic prices highly sensitive to global fluctuations. The hike is expected to worsen inflation as higher fuel costs increase transport and food prices, hitting low-income households hardest. Analysts note that Pakistan has relied on short-term measures like subsidies instead of long-term reforms, and urge steps such as expanding petroleum reserves, modernising refineries and investing in renewable energy like solar and wind.