Petrol dealers warn of supply cuts as government orders inspections

Petrol pump dealers have cautioned that fuel stations across the country may face closures in the coming days due to significant reductions in diesel and petrol supplies. The Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) has reported that diesel supplies have dropped by 20 percent and petrol by 50 percent. The association attributes these shortages to hoarding and sharp increases in fuel prices.

In response to these concerns, the federal government has directed all provincial administrations to ensure physical inspections and monitoring of retail petrol stations. This task is to be carried out by the respective deputy commissioners to prevent hoarding and undue profiteering at fuel outlets, sources said.

The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) has issued a statement assuring the public that the country currently holds sufficient stocks of petroleum products to meet national demand. Ogra emphasized that there is no need for panic buying or hoarding at this time.

Meanwhile, the government has appointed Hamed Yaqoob Sheikh, a grade-22 officer of the Pakistan Administrative Service, as the new secretary of the Petroleum Division. This position had been vacant for several months. Sheikh was previously serving as the secretary for national food security, and has also held roles in finance and planning.

Reports also indicate that the government is considering changes to the petrol pricing mechanism. Among the proposals under review are shifting from the current fortnightly pricing to a weekly basis, as well as providing full financial support for petroleum imports. However, no final decision on these measures has been announced.

While the PPDA warns of potential supply disruptions, government officials maintain that fuel stocks are adequate and that steps are being taken to prevent artificial shortages. The situation remains under close observation as authorities continue their inspections and monitoring efforts.