Fuel traders have raised alarms over a suspected artificial shortage of high-speed diesel (HSD) affecting petrol pumps across Pakistan. The Petrol Pump Dealers Association (PPDA) urged the government to intervene before the situation worsens.
In a letter to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), the association claimed that oil marketing companies (OMCs) have been restricting diesel supplies over the past week. Some pumps reportedly receive minimal fuel, while others have been left completely dry, leaving customers unable to refuel.
Read More: Ogra urged to act as diesel supply gaps spread nationwide
Dealers said that while they place orders for diesel, these are frequently canceled, and fuel trucks are left waiting for hours. They warned that this is not a natural shortage but a manufactured one, possibly in anticipation of a fuel price hike expected later this month.
The association requested that OGRA direct OMCs to supply diesel according to each pump’s regular sales to ensure smooth operations. The letter, dated November 14, was also shared with senior government officials, including the petroleum minister and secretary, and the director general of oil.
Read More: No shortage of petrol, diesel in Pakistan
The warning comes as the government prepares to update fuel prices at midnight, following increases earlier this month. The price of petrol was raised by Rs2.43 to Rs265.45 per litre, while HSD went up by Rs3.02 to Rs278.44 per litre.