Islamabad – Petroleum dealers across Pakistan have issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the government, demanding an increase in their commission rates and warning of possible nationwide disruption in petrol pump operations if their concerns are not addressed.
According to Beyond Time News, the dealers say the existing commission structure has become financially unsustainable, making it increasingly difficult to continue fuel station operations.
Dealers Say Rising Costs Have Made Business Unsustainable
Chief Advisor to the Petroleum Dealers Association, Malik Khuda Bakhsh, said that operating petrol stations under the current commission rates is no longer viable.
He explained that rising operational costs combined with shrinking margins have placed severe financial pressure on dealers across the country.
The association has said it will send a final letter to the petroleum minister outlining its demands. If no response is received within the deadline, a committee will decide the next course of action.
Diesel Sales Drop Sharply, Smuggled Fuel Blamed
Petroleum dealers reported a sharp decline in diesel sales, claiming a fall of nearly 30 percent in May.
They attributed the decline to the growing presence of smuggled fuel in the market, which they say has significantly reduced sales of legally distributed diesel and disrupted the formal fuel supply chain.
Refineries Warn of Storage Pressure
Five oil refineries have also reportedly raised concerns with the government over the impact of fuel smuggling.
They warned that declining diesel demand is creating storage pressure, with several facilities nearing full capacity. Industry stakeholders say this situation could affect overall supply stability if not addressed.
Dealers Demand Urgent Government Response
Petroleum dealers say they previously supported the government during recent regional tensions by ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply.
However, they now argue that the sector is facing serious financial strain without adequate policy relief.
The association has urged the petroleum minister to visit Karachi and assess the situation directly, saying ground realities reflect worsening financial losses.
Petrol Shortage Triggers Long Queues Across Quetta as Fuel Crisis Deepens
Warning of Possible Nationwide Action
The association has warned that if the government fails to respond within 48 hours, Chairman Abdul Sami Khan will announce a final decision regarding future action.
Dealers maintain that under current conditions, continuing normal operations may no longer be possible without immediate relief in commission rates.
Conclusion
The dispute highlights growing financial pressure within Pakistan’s fuel distribution sector, driven by falling diesel sales, rising operational costs, and concerns over smuggled fuel. With a 48-hour deadline now set, attention is on the government’s response to avoid potential disruption in petrol pump operations nationwide.
FAQs
1. What are petroleum dealers demanding?
They want an increase in commission rates for petrol pump operations.
2. What deadline has been given to the government?
A 48-hour deadline to respond to their demands.
3. Why are dealers facing financial stress?
Due to low commissions, rising costs, and declining diesel sales.
4. What is affecting diesel sales?
Dealers blame a rise in smuggled fuel in the market.
5. What could happen if no agreement is reached?
Dealers may announce nationwide operational action.
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