The federal government is finalising an app-based petrol subsidy system aimed at providing targeted fuel relief to low-income citizens as part of efforts to manage rising energy costs and reduce fiscal pressure.

According to official sources, the Pakistan Digital Authority has completed development of the subsidy application, which is currently undergoing final technical testing before its formal launch.

Testing Completed at User and Retailer Levels

The application has been tested separately for consumers and fuel retailers to ensure smooth implementation. Officials confirmed that security safeguards, identity verification mechanisms, and transaction processes have been thoroughly evaluated.

Retailers participated in testing fuel purchase verification and subsidy quota systems, while users tested registration procedures, eligibility checks, and account activation features. Authorities also conducted load testing to assess system performance during high traffic, simulating thousands of simultaneous users.

Beneficiary Data Being Integrated

Work is underway to compile beneficiary data through integration with existing government databases. Authorities are combining records from the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), as well as databases created during the COVID-19 pandemic and recent flood relief operations, to identify eligible households.

Only government-verified low-income individuals will qualify for the subsidy under the proposed mechanism.

Focus on Motorcycle and Rickshaw Owners

The subsidy programme is expected to primarily benefit motorcycle and rickshaw owners, segments considered most vulnerable to fuel price increases.

Eligible users will receive a fixed petrol quota through the application. Applicants must have vehicles registered in their own names, and federal and provincial departments have been directed to facilitate vehicle registration to ensure wider inclusion.