ISLAMABAD: The masses in general and the farmers and growers in particular heaved a sigh of relief and welcomed the PML-N-led government decision regarding reduction in the prices of petroleum products. They expressed the hope that a part from reduction in POL prices itself, it would benefit the masses greatly in shape of bring down the transport fares and prices of other daily-use items.
As per details, the farmers and growers expressed their pleasure over the cut in POL prices up to Rs19 in a month, saying that the government had fulfilled another promise of providing relief to the farming community.
They pointed out that the reduction in POL prices would help bring down cost of agriculture implements, enabling the farmers to cultivate more wheat and other crops on their lands.
They urged the government to ensure implementation of new prices at filling stations and other points according to the announcement by the Prime Minister and transfer relief to farmers.
They, however, demanded the federal government should also take steps to reduce prices of agriculture inputs and implements and provide loans to the farming community, especial small famers to cultivating different crops.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif issued directions to increase the share of coal and gas in the fuel mix for generating electricity in the country, a step that will shift the focus from generating power through furnace oil.
Chairing the third meeting of Cabinet Committee on Energy at PM House in Islamabad on Monday, Nawaz was informed that almost 1,500 mega watts of power will be added to national grid by the summer of 2015.
During the meeting, prime minister was apprised about the progress made on energy policy.
Nawaz directed the committee to increase the quantum of coal and gas as part of the fuel mix policy to help lower prices of electricity. He also directed the committee to devise a comprehensive load management strategy.
The meeting was attended by Minister for Finance Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, Minister for Petroleum Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique, Minister for Water & Power Khawaja Asif, Secretary Petroleum Abid Saeed, Secretary Water & Power Mohammad Younus Dagha and other senior officers.
