The federal government on Thursday ordered all provinces to instruct deputy commissioners (DCs) to carry out inspections within their respective jurisdictions to monitor the illegal hoarding of petroleum products for profiteering, as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate. The statement came in the wake of reports citing a petroleum shortage in the country. Leaders of the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) raised the alarm, alleging that petroleum companies have reduced supply and warned that petrol pumps may begin shutting down within the next few days if the supply is not restored.
A statement issued by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) highlighted concerns over possible hoarding attempts, with reports suggesting that some elements may exploit the current situation to profit from the shortage of fuel.
“To curb such practices, all Provincial Chief Secretaries have been requested to direct the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to carry out inspections within their respective jurisdictions. Any premises found involved in illegal storage of petroleum products will be sealed, and action will be taken in accordance with the law,” OGRA said.