KARACHI, Sept 11: Adviser for Interior Rahman Malik has assured the businessmen that the government is actively considering different options to reduce the price of petroleum products.

Responding to the demand of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) to bring down the petrol prices by at least Rs10 per litre, the adviser told a group of businessmen that he was not in position to reveal the exact quantum of reduction but the matter was under consideration. “You will hear good news shortly,” he added.

Giving details of the meeting held at the Governor House on Thursday, FPCCI acting president Zubair Tufail said the adviser was informed about the deteriorating law and situation in the industrial areas and security of the businessmen.

Mr Rahman said that a new industrial police station would be set up in each of the five industrial estates headed by a Superintendent of Police (SP) under the supervision of the DIG. He also directed the Capital City Police Official (CPO) to ensure the setting up of these police stations within a month.

The adviser said that these stations would specifically look after the affairs of industrial areas and ensure security of the industrialists.

According to FPCCI acting president, the adviser had also assured the businessmen that he would personally draw the attention of the prime minister towards the rising prices of petroleum products, its impact on the industry and people and the law and order situation in the industrial areas.

The adviser was informed that the crude oil prices had fallen to $100 per barrel from record high $148 and the government should pass on maximum benefit of this decline to consumers.

FPCCI former president S.M. Munir mentioned the surging power rate and sought its immediate withdrawal. On the issue, the adviser said that taking back the decision regarding power rates was very difficult right now.

According to KCI President Shamim Ahmed Shamsi the business community also informed the interior adviser about the falling exports and related problems.

Mr Rahman informed them that the economic managers had started working on major economic issues.

The businessmen are also planning to meet President Asif Ali Zardari next week to hold discussions on various economic issues at length.