Pakistan has reduced speed limits on motorways and national highways as part of a broader fuel conservation strategy aimed at reducing energy consumption during a period of rising global oil prices and economic pressure. The decision follows a series of austerity measures announced by the federal government to manage fuel usage across the country.
The step comes after petrol and diesel prices increased sharply earlier this month. Authorities say the move is meant to cut national fuel consumption and encourage more economical driving habits, especially during long intercity travel.
New Speed Limits on Motorways and Highways
Under the revised rules, speed limits for several vehicle categories have been reduced. Cars and Light Transport Vehicles on motorways can now travel at a maximum speed of 100 kilometres per hour instead of the previous 120 km/h. Passenger Service Vehicles and Heavy Transport Vehicles are now restricted to 90 km/h instead of 110 km/h.
On national highways, the maximum speed limit for cars and light vehicles has been lowered from 100 km/h to 80 km/h. Meanwhile, passenger and heavy transport vehicles will now be limited to 65 km/h instead of 80 km/h.
Officials from the National Highways and Motorway Police said the change has been introduced on the instructions of the federal government.
Syed Imran Ahmed, spokesperson for the motorway police central region, said:
“On the directions of the federal government, the speed limits on motorways and national highways have been reduced to conserve fuel, and an awareness campaign has been launched to inform the public.”
Authorities say enforcement teams will monitor compliance across the national road network.
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Fuel Conservation Becomes National Priority
The new speed limits are part of a larger government plan to reduce fuel consumption at a time when Pakistan faces higher oil import costs and global energy market uncertainty. Pakistan relies heavily on imported fuel, which makes the economy sensitive to global oil price fluctuations.
Earlier this month, petrol and diesel prices in Pakistan increased by around Rs55 per litre, putting pressure on transport costs and inflation. The price surge has been linked to disruptions in global energy supply routes caused by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Experts say vehicles consume significantly more fuel at higher speeds, particularly above 100 km/h. Reducing speeds can therefore improve fuel efficiency and reduce overall demand for imported fuel.
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Impact on Travel and Road Safety
The policy is expected to slightly increase travel time on long motorway journeys. However, authorities believe the measure could also improve road safety. Lower driving speeds typically reduce the severity of road accidents and help maintain smoother traffic flow.
Pakistan’s motorway network has historically allowed speeds of up to 120 km/h for light vehicles, one of the highest limits in the country’s road system. The National Highways and Motorway Police, established in 1997, is responsible for enforcing traffic rules and safety regulations across Pakistan’s motorway and national highway network.
Officials have also launched an awareness campaign to inform motorists about the revised limits, particularly ahead of the Eid travel season when intercity traffic usually increases significantly.
The government believes that even small reductions in speed across thousands of vehicles could translate into substantial national fuel savings.
