Pakistan’s energy regulator has warned of strict action against illegal hoarding of petroleum products. Authorities say any individual or company storing fuel at unauthorized locations will face immediate enforcement measures.
The warning was issued by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority as concerns grow about possible supply disruptions amid regional tensions. Officials stressed that the country currently holds sufficient petroleum stocks and there is no need for panic buying.
The government also confirmed that maintaining uninterrupted fuel supply across the country remains a top national priority. Officials say monitoring of fuel stocks, supply chains, and distribution networks has been intensified.
OGRA Threatens Action Against Illegal Fuel Storage
In an official statement, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority warned that strict enforcement will be taken against illegal fuel storage and hoarding activities.
According to the regulator, petroleum products can only be stored at licensed oil depots or authorized retail outlets operated by Oil Marketing Companies.
Authorities warned that any premises found storing petroleum illegally will be sealed immediately. Legal action may also follow against individuals or organizations involved in such activities.
OGRA officials said the measure is intended to prevent profiteering during times of uncertainty. Fuel hoarding can disrupt supply chains and artificially increase prices for consumers.
The regulator also reassured the public that the country’s petroleum stock levels remain stable. Current reserves are said to be within the required limits to meet national demand.
Officials urged citizens not to panic or change their fuel consumption habits. They also advised the public to ignore rumors circulating about potential shortages.
Government Intensifies Monitoring of Fuel Supply Chain
Due to the evolving geopolitical situation in the region, authorities have increased surveillance of the petroleum supply system. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority said it is closely monitoring oil depots and retail outlets nationwide.
Inspection teams have been deployed to ensure smooth fuel distribution. The inspections aim to prevent hoarding, illegal storage, and other market irregularities.
Provincial administrations have also been instructed to support the monitoring effort. Chief secretaries across provinces have been asked to direct local authorities to conduct field inspections.
Deputy commissioners in different districts are expected to check warehouses, storage facilities, and fuel stations within their jurisdictions.
Officials said the coordinated effort will help ensure that petroleum products remain available across the country.
Government Committee Reviews Supply and Pricing Risks
Separately, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said ensuring uninterrupted petroleum supply is the government’s top priority.
Aurangzeb made the statement while chairing a meeting in Islamabad of a committee formed to monitor petrol prices and energy supply developments.
The committee was established by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to assess the potential impact of regional tensions on Pakistan’s fuel market.
Officials told the meeting that national petroleum reserves remain at comfortable levels. They said the country currently has adequate stock coverage for key fuel products.
The committee reviewed several supply and pricing scenarios. The goal is to prepare contingency plans in case global energy markets become more volatile.
Participants also discussed the impact of rising “war premium” costs and increased competition for energy cargoes in Asian markets.
Authorities warned that prolonged instability in global energy trade could place pressure on Pakistan’s external accounts.
To address these risks, officials are exploring diversified fuel sourcing strategies and improved logistics arrangements.
The committee also reviewed shipping measures to reduce delivery delays. These include faster port operations and the possible use of national shipping capacity where needed.
Officials further stressed the need to prevent fuel smuggling and illegal diversion of petroleum products. Provincial administrations will work closely with the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority to enforce regulations.
The committee will finalize its recommendations soon and submit them to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for further action.
Authorities say daily monitoring meetings will continue to ensure that petroleum supplies remain stable and accessible nationwide.
