The Sindh government today announced a sweeping relief package, freezing public transport fares at previous levels and launching a direct fuel subsidy of Rs2,000 per month for motorcyclists to counter the effects of soaring fuel costs and inflation.
At a press conference held at the CM House, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah unveiled the measures as part of a comprehensive, targeted subsidy framework designed to provide direct financial aid to vulnerable populations while ensuring economic stability.
Under the new scheme, registered motorcycle owners will receive the monthly stipend, equivalent to a subsidy on approximately 20 litres of petrol. The chief minister stressed that eligibility is contingent on the motorcycle being officially registered in the applicant”s name.
To manage the programme, the Excise and Taxation Department has activated a digital registration and verification system. Applicants are required to submit their CNIC and bank account (IBAN) details online to receive an automated confirmation. A dedicated helpline (021-111-374-634) has also been established to assist citizens.
In a significant move to encourage correct ownership, the provincial government has also abolished the Rs500 transfer fee for motorcycles. To expedite registrations, excise offices throughout Sindh will operate on extended hours, from 8:00 am to 12:00 midnight daily, including weekends, for a 15-day period.
For daily commuters, the government has secured an agreement with transport operators to fix fares at February 28, 2026, levels. Chief Minister Shah stated that transporters were taken into confidence and have consented to the arrangement.
To support the fare stabilisation, a subsidy programme, estimated between Rs3 to Rs4 billion, will be provided to public transport operators. This covers approximately 11,000 private buses and 470 government-run vehicles. The CM issued a stern warning that any violation of the agreed fare structure will face strict action.
The relief measures also extend to the agricultural sector, with the chief minister announcing a Rs3 billion assistance programme for small-scale growers, set to commence this week.
The overall targeted subsidy framework includes Rs13.4 billion for the motorcycle scheme, a transport subsidy of Rs14.3 billion per month in coordination with the federal government, the Rs3-4 billion for fare stabilisation, and the Rs3 billion farmer support package.
Mr Shah highlighted that the initiative promotes financial inclusion by encouraging citizens to use bank accounts for direct transfers. He reiterated that the entire programme utilises a transparent, digital system to ensure aid reaches genuine beneficiaries.
The chief minister noted that extensive consultations were held with transporters and 25 traders’ associations, with most supporting the government”s actions. He said that all but two associations have agreed to call off their protests against petrol price increases.
‘We are committed to protecting the people through targeted, transparent measures,’ Mr Shah said, referencing broader economic pressures. ‘Our goal is to ensure relief reaches those who need it most while maintaining stability in essential sectors.’
He also confirmed an investigation is underway regarding a recent incident in Khairpur.
The chief minister was accompanied by provincial ministers Sharjeel Memon, Nasir Shah, Mukesh Chawala, and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab during the announcement.