Diesel is the lifeline of Pakistan’s economy. It runs our trucks, buses, trains, and farming tractors. When diesel price changes, everything changes. Food prices go up. Transport fares are increasing. Even vegetables become expensive.
So, what is the diesel rate today in Pakistan? This is the question on everyone’s mind. In this article, we will give you the latest prices. We also explain why prices are rising and what it means to you.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Diesel rate today in Pakistan (9 March 2026)
The government has announced new petroleum prices. This is one of the biggest hikes in Pakistan’s history. The new rates took effect from 12 AM on 7 March 2026.
Here are the latest ex depot prices:
| Product | Old Price | New Price | Increase |
| Super Petrol | Rs 266.17 | Rs 321.17 | + Rs 55 |
| High Speed Diesel | Rs 280.86 | Rs 335.86 | + Rs 55 |
Yes, you read that right. The diesel rate today in Pakistan is Rs 335.86 per liter. This is an increase of about 20 percent.
Petrol also went up by Rs 55. It now costs Rs 321.17 per liter.
Why did diesel prices increase so much?
You might be wondering why the government suddenly raised prices. There are three main reasons.
1. Middle east tensions
The biggest reason is the conflict involving Iran and Israel. Iran recently closed the Strait of Hormuz. This is a very important waterway. About one fifth of the world’s oil passes through it.
When the Strait is closed, oil shipments stop. Global oil prices go up immediately.
2. Global oil prices surge
Because of the crisis, international oil prices have exceeded $100 per barrel. US crude futures jumped more than 12 percent to above $90 per barrel. Brent crude rose to around $92 per barrel.
Pakistan imports most of its oil. We buy from Saudi Arabia and UAE through the Strait of Hormuz. When global prices rise, we have to pay more.
3. Weekly price reviews
Earlier, the government reviewed prices every two weeks. Now, because of the volatile situation, they will review prices every week.
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said, “As soon as the global situation stabilizes, prices will be reduced accordingly.”
Government measures to control prices
The government knows this hike is painful. Therefore, they have taken some steps.
Petroleum levy adjustment
To reduce the impact on diesel users, the government changed the petroleum development levy (PDL).
- Levy on petrol increased from Rs 84.40 to Rs 105 per liter
- Levy on diesel reduced from Rs 76.21 to Rs 55 per liter
This means the government is collecting less tax on diesel. They want to keep diesel prices slightly lower because it affects transport and food.
Action against hoarders
Before the price hike, long queues formed at petrol pumps. People rushed to fill their tanks at old prices. Some petrol stations closed their pumps. They wanted to sell later at higher prices.
The government has warned strict action against hoarders. Petrol stations found hoarding fuel will face license cancellation and legal action.
Alternate supply routes
Pakistan is also looking for alternate routes. The petroleum minister met the Saudi ambassador. Saudi Arabia assured that oil deliveries can be arranged through the Red Sea port of Yanbu.
Two Pakistani ships are already transporting oil through alternate routes via Yanbu and Fujairah.
City wise diesel rates
Diesel prices can vary slightly by city due to transportation costs. Here are approximate rates in major cities:
| City | Diesel Rate (approx) |
| Karachi | Rs 335.86 |
| Lahore | Rs 335.86 |
| Islamabad | Rs 335.86 |
| Faisalabad | Rs 335.86 |
| Multan | Rs 335.86 |
| Sialkot | Rs 335.86 |
Note: These are ex-depot prices. Actual pump price may vary by Rs 1 2 depending on location.
Impact of diesel price hike
When diesel becomes expensive, everything becomes expensive. Here is how it affects common people.
1. Transport fares increase
Buses, wagons, and rickshaws all use diesel. When fuel costs rise, owners increase fares. Commuters have to pay more to go to work, school, or markets.
2. Food prices go up
Trucks carry vegetables, fruits, and grains across the country. They run on diesel. Higher diesel means higher freight charges. This cost is passed on to consumers. Expect tomato, onion, and potato prices to rise in the coming days.
3. Inflation rises
Pakistan’s inflation was already at a 16-month high of 7 percent last month. Analysts expect it to climb further. The finance minister warned that the monthly oil import bill could reach $600 million.
4. Industry becomes expensive
The Pakistan Industrial and Traders Associations Front (PIAF) criticized the hike. They said it would increase production costs and hurt exports. Inland freight for shipments between Karachi and Central Punjab could surge by 25 to 30 percent. This will make Pakistani textiles more expensive in international markets.
5. Fishermen suffer
Fishermen in Karachi use diesel for their boats. Rising fuel costs have forced some to reduce fishing trips . Others are halting operations altogether. This affects their livelihoods and seafood supply. For breaking news on flight cancellations, read Qatar, Etihad flights cancelled from Islamabad. Latest updates here.
Will diesel prices decrease soon?
The government says prices will come down when the global situation improves.
Petroleum Minister Malik stated, “We will review these prices on a weekly basis and reduce them promptly once the situation improves.”
However, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said it is uncertain how long the tensions will last. If the conflict continues, prices may remain high.
Finance Minister Aurangzeb warned that crude prices could rise to $120 per barrel if the conflict escalates further. That would mean even higher diesel rates.
Frequently asked questions
1. What is the diesel rate today in Pakistan?
Rs 335.86 per liter.
2. Why did price increase?
Global oil price hike and Middle East tensions.
3. Will price go down?
Yes, when global prices drop.
4. How does it affect food?
Transport costs up. Food is expensive.
5. What is the petrol rate today?
Rs 321.17 per liter.
