PESHAWAR — Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Afridi addressed a high-level press conference today, warning that the country is navigating a “critical phase” exacerbated by flawed federal policies and rising regional tensions. The Chief Minister officially rejected the recent federal hike in petroleum prices, characterizing the Rs. 55 per literincrease as a “petrol bomb” dropped on the struggling masses.
Economic Burden and Energy Crisis
Afridi noted that the escalating conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel—combined with ongoing Pak-Afghan tensions—has placed Pakistan in a precarious position. He warned that if the current trajectory continues, a severe energy crisis is inevitable.
“We reject the imposition of this massive economic burden on the public,” Afridi stated. “The surge in petroleum costs is already triggering a chain reaction, driving up electricity prices and making life unsustainable for the common man.”
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Despite the friction, the Chief Minister clarified that his administration would not play politics with national security. He confirmed that the provincial government has already submitted formal proposals to the Federation to mitigate the energy crisis.
Provincial Relief Measures: BRT and Solar Initiatives
To shield the citizens of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from rising inflation, Chief Minister Afridi announced several immediate relief interventions:
- BRT Fare Freeze: The provincial government will bear the additional financial burden of rising fuel costs to ensure that BRT Peshawar fares remain unchanged.
- Pink Bus Service: Ten new “Pink Buses” will be introduced specifically for women to improve safe and affordable urban mobility.
- Solar Energy Transition: The government will soon begin the distribution of solar systems to provide sustainable energy alternatives to households.
- Farmer Support: A dedicated relief package for farmers is in the final stages of preparation and will be announced shortly.
Health Concerns for PTI Founder
Turning to political matters, the Chief Minister expressed serious concern regarding the health of the PTI founder Imran Khan, noting that the leader had been moved to the hospital twice recently. Afridi demanded that the founder be granted immediate access to his personal physician for treatment.
Future Outlook
The Chief Minister concluded by reiterating that while the province remains committed to supporting Pakistan during these testing times, it will continue to stand against any federal measures that directly target the financial well-being of the poor.
