Government plans to wake up against petrol shortage

A severe shortage of fuel exists across the country after the reduction of prices

Government plans to wake up against petrol shortage. As a result, the matter was under discussion in Cabinet. Thus, the Cabinet took serious note of the artificial shortage of petrol in the country. Moreover, the direction comes from the Prime Minister that the government should take maximum punitive action against all those responsible for this.

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Specific Directions

a. The Cabinet noted that OGRA and Petroleum Division have legal authority to physically enter and inspect oil companies storage facilities. As a result, the Cabinet directed Petroleum Ministry to form joint raiding teams comprising of representatives of Petroleum Division, OGRA, FIA and District administrations. The teams shall inspect all petrol depots/storage. They have all authority to enter any site. Thus, anyone found involved in hoarding shall face full force of law, including arrest and forced release of such stores.
b. Any company found not maintaining the mandatory stocks and supply to its outlets, as per their license, shall face punitive actions, including suspension and cancellation of license and heavy fines.

c. The Prime Minister directed that the Petroleum Division and OGRA take all actions necessary to ensure regular supplies within 48-72 hours.
d. Ministry of Energy informed the Cabinet that while June 2019 total supplies were 650,000 metric tons. And that the arrangement of supplies for June 2020 is 850,000 metric tons. The Cabinet urged the public not to engage in panic buying. The stocks that are being hoarded will be identified and ensured to be available in the market and action taken against hoarders.

e. The Prime Minister directed the Minister of Petroleum and OGRA to ensure that every Oil Marketing Company (OMC) maintains 21 days stock to meet its license conditions.