Nationwide petrol pump shutdown announced

The All Pakistan Petrol Pumps Association has announced a nationwide shutdown of petrol stations from tonight after negotiations with the government

The All Pakistan Petrol Pumps Association has announced a nationwide shutdown of petrol stations from tonight after negotiations with the government failed to resolve the dispute over daily changes in petroleum prices.

Association General Secretary Nauman Butt said talks between the Petroleum Minister and petrol pump owners ended without reaching any agreement.

He said the association raised concerns over the government’s decision to revise petroleum product prices on a daily basis. However, the discussions did not produce a solution acceptable to both sides.

The association has now decided to close petrol pumps across the country as a protest against the unresolved issue.

The shutdown announcement has raised concerns about possible disruptions in fuel supply and difficulties for consumers if the strike continues.

Further developments are expected as the government and petrol pump representatives may hold additional talks to resolve the matter and restore normal fuel services.

The government had earlier decided to introduce a daily petroleum pricing mechanism in view of the deteriorating regional security situation.

Under the new policy, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) will announce petroleum prices on a daily basis without requiring approval from the prime minister or the federal government. However, fuel prices announced on Fridays will remain unchanged on Saturdays and Sundays.

The All Pakistan Petrol Pumps Association (APPPA) has rejected the petroleum price deregulation policy and urged the government to reconsider its decision.

Association Chairman Nauman Ali Butt said the burden created by the new pricing system should not be placed on petrol pump owners.

He stressed that all stakeholders should be consulted before finalising fuel prices with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

Butt added that nearly 15,000 petrol pump owners across Pakistan have expressed serious concerns over the new policy and called on the government to address their reservations before implementing the system.