Pakistan: Ahead of general elections, interim government hikes fuel prices

Pakistan's interim government, led by Prime Minister Nasir-ul-Mulk, decided to hike fuel prices on Saturday night. 

This is the second time in two months when fuel prices in the country have been increased. The prices will come into effect from July 1 and are likely to hit the crumbling economy of the country. 

Petrol, diesel, kerosene oil, light diesel and high-speed diesel currently cost Rs. 99.50, Rs. 119.31, Rs. 87.70, Rs. 80.91, and Rs.105.31, respectively. 

The costs of respective fuels have been increased by hiked by Rs. 7.54, Rs. 14.00, Rs. 3.36, Rs. 5.92, and Rs. 6.55 respectively. 

Pakistan's Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) had recommended an increase in prices of petrol, diesel, and kerosene oil by Rs. 5.40, Rs. 6.20, and Rs. 12.00 for the month of July, ANI reported.

Pakistan's interim government had previously hiked the fuel prices, between June 12 and June 30, by Rs. 4.26, Rs. 6.55, and Rs. 4.46 per litre for petrol, diesel, and kerosene oil respectively.

Pakistan will go to polls later this month.

(With inputs from ANI)