The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has warned Aramco Asia Singapore Pvt Ltd and Gas & Oil Pakistan Ltd (GO) of possible legal action if they fail to respond in a case involving Aramco-branded fuel stations in the federal capital. The court expressed concern over delayed replies and directed the companies to submit their responses before further proceedings.
Justice Muhammad Azam Khan heard the petition filed by Muhammad Shafiq Mir, who owns a PSO fuel station on Srinagar Highway. During the hearing, the judge showed dissatisfaction over several respondents who had not submitted their replies despite receiving multiple notices.
Court Seeks Responses From Key Authorities
The IHC issued fresh notices to several departments and organisations, including the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, Capital Development Authority (CDA), District Magistrate, Explosives Department, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Aramco and other respondents.
“Those who have not submitted their replies will face an ex parte decision,” Justice Azam Khan remarked, adding that the court would proceed with an order in the matter.
The petitioner’s lawyer, Kashif Ali Malik, informed the court that almost a year had passed since the case was filed. However, several parties had still not provided their responses.
He also raised questions about the connection between GO Pakistan and Aramco. He said, “At one place they say GO is a separate entity, while at another they claim it has 40 percent shares.”
Petition Raises Licensing and Regulatory Concerns
The petition challenges the operation of Aramco-branded petrol stations in Islamabad. It claims that Aramco has been operating fuel outlets without obtaining the required marketing licence from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA).
The petitioner also argued that the company has not registered itself as a corporate entity in Pakistan. According to the petition, the arrangement violates regulations under the OGRA Ordinance, Pakistan Oil Rules 2016, Petroleum Act and Explosives Act.
The petitioner claimed that an Aramco outlet near his fuel station was operating through licences and permits issued to local companies, including Gas & Oil Pakistan Ltd and Askar Oil.
Court to Review Alleged Impact on Local Operators
The petition stated that allowing such operations created “serious safety, regulatory, and competitive distortions” and affected local fuel operators financially.
It also accused OGRA and other relevant authorities of “systemic inaction” by failing to address the alleged regulatory violations.
The court’s warning highlights the importance of regulatory compliance in Pakistan’s fuel sector. After issuing fresh notices to the respondents, the Islamabad High Court adjourned further proceedings in the case.
