The All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners Association (APPPOA) has issued a serious warning of a nationwide shutdown if their concerns continue to be ignored. In a letter addressed to Federal Petroleum Minister Ali Pervez Malik, the association demanded an urgent meeting and called for the inclusion of industry stakeholders in petroleum policymaking.
Vice Chairman Nouman Ali Butt highlighted the growing challenges faced by over 14,000 petrol pump owners across Pakistan. These include operational difficulties, financial strain, pricing instability, and sudden disruptions caused by force majeure events. The letter emphasized that similar concerns were raised earlier in March but received no response from the government.
The situation is further complicated by rising fuel prices, driven by tensions in the Middle East. Since the conflict began, the government has increased petrol and diesel prices by Rs55 per litre, kerosene by over Rs200, and high-octane fuel by Rs200 per litre. These hikes have placed immense pressure on dealers, many of whom are struggling to maintain operations.
APPPOA warned that if their demands are not met, they would be forced to shut down petrol pumps, potentially triggering another fuel crisis across the country. The association stressed that any resulting disruption would be the responsibility of the Petroleum Division.
Despite the warning, APPPOA expressed hope for a constructive response and reiterated their commitment to dialogue. Meanwhile, the Finance Ministry, led by Muhammad Aurangzeb, confirmed that Pakistan has “largely secured” petrol cargoes for March and April, offering some relief amid growing uncertainty.
As the situation unfolds, the government faces mounting pressure to address the concerns of petrol pump owners and prevent a crisis that could impact millions of citizens.
