Petrol pump owners warn of potential fuel shortage in Pakistan due to quota system

2026-03-04 - 10:03

ISLAMABAD – The All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners Association (APPPOA) has issued a warning about a potential shortage of petroleum products in the country amid US-Iran conflict in the Middle East, urging the prime minister to take immediate action to prevent disruption. The APPPOA has sent an urgent letter highlighting concerns over fuel supply delays caused by the quota system recently imposed by oil marketing companies. According to the association, the quota system is restricting petrol pumps from receiving the required amount of fuel, leaving many stations understocked. Even after placing orders, tankers are reportedly forced to wait for hours at depots before they can deliver fuel to petrol pumps. This delay, the association warned, could lead to an artificial shortage, triggering public panic and fear. The association stressed that the government must intervene immediately to ensure smooth fuel distribution and prevent disruption in daily life. They urged that oil companies should be required to consult with stakeholders before implementing any restrictions that affect the availability of petroleum products. The petrol pump owners also called for a swift improvement in the supply chain to ensure that fuel reaches stations on time. They highlighted that the ongoing delays are not only affecting business operations at petrol stations but also risk inconveniencing millions of consumers who rely on petrol for transportation and daily activities. The letter from APPPOA comes at a time when Pakistan is already facing challenges in its energy sector, including dependency on imports to meet the majority of its petrol demand. Industry experts say any disruption in supply chains or delays in delivery can have an immediate impact on fuel availability across the country. The officials from Pakistan Railways and energy regulatory authorities have yet to issue a public response. Meanwhile, the association’s warning emphasizes the urgent need for better planning, consultation, and coordination between oil companies and government authorities to safeguard consumers and maintain stability in the petroleum sector. Pakistan’s energy security under threat amid Mideast tensions, Strait of Hormuz disruptions