By A potential fuel shortage is looming in Pakistan, particularly in major cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi, as road blockades and lockdowns caused by political protests disrupt the transportation of petroleum products. Media reports and statements from senior government officials have highlighted significant challenges in the movement of fuel-carrying tankers and lorries, exacerbating concerns for commuters and businesses.
Road Blockades and Supply Chain Disruptions
Ongoing political protests have led to official barricades across key highways and motorways, severely impacting fuel supply chains. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has expressed grave concerns over the situation, warning that the supply of petroleum products could face critical disruptions if the issue persists.
Oil transporters have reported working closely with local authorities to address these challenges. However, as a precaution, tankers on the road have been instructed to offload their stocks at the nearest petrol stations to prevent mishaps, further straining fuel availability at retail outlets.
Retail Pumps Drying Out
Fuel shortages are becoming apparent at retail stations in Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi—cities that have become epicenters of protests and subsequent government countermeasures. With private companies struggling to maintain their supply chains, the burden has shifted significantly to state-run Pakistan State Oil (PSO).
PSO is taking active measures to mitigate the crisis, including coordinating with provincial authorities. Earlier today, PSO approached the Punjab Chief Secretary and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to seek assistance in facilitating fuel transportation, particularly to replenish stocks in the Lahore Division.
OGRA and PSO Seek Government Intervention
OGRA and PSO have both called for immediate attention from federal and provincial governments to address the critical fuel supply disruptions. PSO has specifically urged authorities to ensure the reopening of key highways and routes in Punjab, emphasizing the dire need to stabilize the supply chain in Lahore Division.
Officials at the federal level have been informed about the disruptions, and OGRA has urged immediate corrective measures to prevent a widespread crisis.
Fuel Prices and Public Impact
The ongoing crisis comes at a time when fuel prices in Pakistan remain unchanged since the last revision on November 15. Currently, petrol is priced at Rs. 248.38 per liter, while diesel costs Rs. 255.14 per liter. The next revision is expected on November 30, but any further disruptions could influence future price adjustments.
A Call for Urgent Action
As the fuel supply chain faces unprecedented challenges, the government must act swiftly to restore normalcy and avert a full-blown crisis. Ensuring the safe and unhindered movement of oil tankers is critical to maintaining fuel availability and stabilizing public and commercial activities.
What’s Next?
With the political unrest showing no signs of abating, the risk of a prolonged fuel shortage looms large. Citizens are urged to monitor updates from OGRA and PSO and limit unnecessary travel to conserve fuel during this critical period.
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