The Pakistan Petroleum Sellers Association has issued a grave ultimatum, threatening nationwide closure of petrol pumps should the government proceed with deregulating petroleum products. During a detailed press conference held at the Press Club Karachi, Abd-ul-Sami Khan, Chairman of the Petroleum Dealer Association, articulated concerns over the potential ramifications of such a policy shift.
Khan highlighted the forecasted consequence of a Rs20 surge in petrol prices across remote regions of Pakistan in the event of deregulation. This exacerbation is particularly troubling given the prevalent issue of petrol smuggling, which stands as a significant challenge in its own right.
Furthermore, Khan acknowledged the potential advantages that could have been reaped through a bilateral agreement with Iran, positing it as a missed opportunity for the nation. He also shed light on the monopolistic grip wielded by three major oil marketing companies, which collectively commandeer 75% of the petrol industry.
In an effort to mobilize opposition against deregulation, Khan revealed plans to deploy protest banners in the initial phase of resistance. He cautioned against the impending devastation of the industry should deregulation come to pass, underlining the gravity of the situation.
