The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has assured that there is no fuel shortage in Pakistan, despite delays in petroleum consignment clearance at Karachi Port due to the Sindh government’s 1.8% infrastructure development cess, which has raised concerns of rising costs and temporary disruptions.
OGRA assures uninterrupted fuel supply nationwide
Oil regularity authority has dismissed reports of a nationwide fuel shortage, stating that the situation is “fully under control.”
OGRA spokesperson Imran Ghaznavi confirmed that the temporary delay in clearing imported petroleum consignments has been resolved.
PSO diesel vessel and Wafi Energy’s petrol consignment have been cleared, ensuring normal fuel distribution across the country.
OGRA emphasised that there is no disruption in supply, and operations are running smoothly.
Cess imposed by Sindh government sparks industry concerns
The Sindh government’s 1.8% Infrastructure Development cess on petroleum imports created panic within the oil sector.
The Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC) and the Oil Marketing Association of Pakistan (OMAP) warned that the new levy could increase fuel prices by more than Rs.3 per litre.
The requirement of 100% bank guarantees for consignment clearance also strained oil companies’ cash flow.
Industry representatives cautioned that if the issue persists, it could affect the national fuel supply chain in the future.
Temporary relief as Sindh government clears limited PSO carriers
In response to mounting pressure, the Sindh government allowed PSO’s vessel clearance on a 15-day undertaking, temporarily easing concerns of a shortage.
Similarly, other oil marketing companies are also expected to receive clearance under similar arrangements.
Meanwhile, OGRA confirmed that fuel prices remain stable within government defined framework. With petrol now priced at Rs263.02 per litre and diesel at Rs275.41.
The authority reassured consumers that supply remains consistent nationwide and urged the public not to panic over speculative reports on social media.
