The government utilizes 24,000 mobile devices to support the petroleum subsidy initiative.

The government has resolved to acquire some 24,000 mobile phones to implement a statewide digital, app-based fuel subsidy scheme, representing a significant initiative to address the current energy crisis through targeted assistance and enhanced oversight.

The devices, to be installed at petrol stations nationwide, will provide the foundation of a new system intended to manage the distribution of subsidized petrol via a mobile application.

The Ministry of IT will supervise the effort, while the National IT Board will establish the pricing of the mobile phones. Oil marketing businesses will acquire the gadgets and distribute them to petrol stations, with approximately 12,000 stations anticipated to be outfitted with two mobile phones apiece.

The system intends to optimize and digitize the distribution of subsidized fuel by designating two specific nozzles at each petrol station for subsidized petrol. Consumers, especially motorcyclists and three-wheeler proprietors, will be able to obtain subsidized fuel through the mobile application using digital vouchers or QR codes provided by the app.

According to sources, the mobile application has been constructed and is currently undergoing final testing stages.

Under the proposed scheme, qualifying users will receive a fixed monthly allocation of subsidized petrol, with motorbikes anticipated to be allotted between 20 to 30 gallons per month.

Consumers will be prohibited from over their designated quota, so assuring regulated and focused distribution.

A conclusive determination about the extension of the facility to vehicles up to 800cc has not yet been made. The government is contemplating the expansion of the scheme to encompass specific additional groups of customers within a targeted subsidy framework.

Officials stated that the program is part of a comprehensive strategy to tackle the energy problem, with many policy alternatives presently under evaluation. In anticipation of possible emergencies, alternate contingency plans have been developed.

Simultaneously with the implementation, officials have commenced a monitoring process at petrol stations nationwide to guarantee transparency and efficiency in the system.

The implementation of digital verification using QR codes is anticipated to reduce misuse and enhance accountability in fuel distribution.

Sources said that an official announcement concerning the implementation of the QR code-based subsidized petrol system is anticipated shortly.