The Oil Marketing Association of Pakistan (OMAP) has raised a serious alarm regarding the possibility of widespread fuel shortages across the country. This warning comes amid growing concerns over inconsistent supply allocations from local refineries, which have reportedly deviated from previously agreed-upon commitments. The association’s cautionary notice was formally communicated through a letter issued from Lahore, highlighting the urgent need for corrective measures to avoid disruptions in fuel availability nationwide.
OMAP’s letter emphasized that oil marketing companies had structured their supply chains and distribution plans based on firm assurances received during recent product review meetings. These assurances involved domestic refineries guaranteeing the delivery of petroleum products in specific quantities, which were critical for maintaining smooth operations. However, the association pointed out that these commitments have not been honored, with refineries falling short in supplying the agreed volumes. This unexpected shortfall has created uncertainty and operational challenges for the oil marketing companies across Pakistan.
Chairman of the oil marketing companies group, Tariq Wazir Ali, elaborated on the situation by explaining that many companies had deliberately avoided arranging for imported fuel shipments. This decision was made after receiving firm promises that local refineries would adequately meet the country’s fuel demand. Unfortunately, the refineries later implemented a new distribution mechanism without consulting or coordinating with the oil marketing companies. Under this revised system, the quantities of petroleum products being allocated to these companies have been significantly reduced, further exacerbating the supply issues.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, OMAP highlighted that alternative sources for fuel supply are currently limited or unavailable, which severely restricts the ability to compensate for the shortfall from local refineries. This constraint poses a serious risk to maintaining consistent fuel availability in the market, potentially leading to shortages that could impact various sectors reliant on petroleum products. Tariq Wazir Ali also pointed out that despite the existence of sufficient petroleum stocks within the refineries, the actual supplies being released to oil marketing companies are being curtailed. This practice is causing the mandatory fuel reserves, which are required by regulations to be maintained for at least 21 days, to steadily decline.
The association’s letter warned that if the current supply disruptions persist, Pakistan’s national fuel reserves could reach dangerously low levels in the near future. Such a scenario would not only threaten the stability of fuel supplies but could also trigger wider economic and logistical challenges across the country. OMAP made it clear that in the event of a fuel shortage, the responsibility would rest squarely on the shoulders of the refineries and the regulatory authorities tasked with overseeing the petroleum sector. The association urged immediate intervention to rectify the situation and ensure that fuel supplies remain uninterrupted for the public and industry alike.
