KARACHI: The All Pakistan Oil Tankers Owners Association on Saturday announced that the nationwide supply of petroleum products would continue uninterrupted, easing concerns over a possible disruption in fuel distribution amid growing tensions over transport costs and petroleum pricing.
The statement follows a turbulent week for Pakistan’s petroleum and transport sectors after the government revised fuel prices for the period from July 18 to July 20, increasing the price of petrol by Rs5.44 per litre and high-speed diesel by Rs31.05 per litre.
The sharp increase in diesel prices, which directly affects freight transport, prompted the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance to announce a 15 per cent increase in freight charges, warning that transport operators could no longer absorb rising fuel and tax costs.
Freight charges jump 15pc as diesel price hike rattles transport sector
Separately, petrol pump owners also expressed reservations over the government’s evolving petroleum pricing policy, including proposals to introduce more frequent revisions in fuel prices. Dealers argued that rapid price adjustments could expose retailers to inventory losses while further complicating business operations.
The assurance by All Pakistan Oil Tankers Owners Association comes against the backdrop of mounting pressure on Pakistan’s fuel supply chain following recent increases in petroleum prices and demands from transporters and petroleum retailers for relief from rising operational costs.
In a statement, Association Chairman Mir Shams Shahwani said oil tankers would continue transporting petroleum products across the country and that the association stood with the people during the prevailing economic situation.
“We will not stop the supply of petroleum products for the convenience of the public,” Shahwani said, dispelling speculation about any disruption in fuel deliveries.
He said negotiations with the government over freight rates and other long-standing issues were continuing, adding that a series of meetings had been held with the prime minister’s adviser and relevant ministries.
Expressing optimism, Shahwani said the outstanding issues would be resolved through dialogue.
He also urged the government not to bow to “any form of pressure or blackmail” and called for strict action against what he described as a “corrupt mafia.”
Referring to developments in the international energy market, Shahwani said global oil prices remained elevated, contributing to higher petroleum prices in Pakistan. However, he said the government was making efforts to provide maximum possible relief to consumers.
