Staff Report

KARACHI: Petroleum Minister Dr. Asim says his ministry has nothing to do with the hike in petroleum prices, SAMAA reported on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters during his visit to Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Dr. Asim said the petroleum ministry is not responsible for increase in the fuel prices, saying that the rates are adjusted keeping in view the international market.

The minister’s unique logic came day after the government increased petroleum and CNG prices by Rs 8.

Petrol price has been increased by Rs 7.77 per litre and high speed diesel by Rs 5.94. Similarly, kerosene oil price has been increased by Rs 5.86; light diesel oil by Rs 5.54 per litre and that of high octane blending component (HOBC) by Rs 8.18 per litre.

To a query, he said only the Parliament would decide about the subsidy on petroleum products, and hinted at decline in gas load-shedding during the winter season. -- SAMAA