ISLAMABAD: Government rubbished rumours of petrol and diesel shortage in country, stating that oil reserves required by country were well in stock. “Sufficient useable stocks of petroleum products are available in country to meet needs of petrol [363,085 metric tonnes] for 20 days and diesel [515,687 metric tonnes] for 29 days,” Minister of State for Petroleum Dr Musadik Malik said while addressing press conference here. Musadik Malik added that these were other than cargoes arriving and waiting in sea for berthing. He also warned elements involved in hoarding petroleum products and creating artificial fuel shortage of ‘dire consequences.’

He said that few people were involved in creating artificial shortage by dumping petrol and diesel with hope to sell them in future at exorbitant rate.He said government would ensure state writ at every cost and hinted licenses of Oil Marketing Companies, who would be found involved in such illegal activities would be revoked. “I request to those hoarding petroleum products to shun this practice and do not challenge writ of state.” Musadik Malik said prices of petroleum products were revised by government as per scheduled time, international market and rupee-dollar parity.

Responding to question, he said during ongoing winter season, incumbent government under leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ensured better gas management which resulted in better supply to consumers, especially domestic sector as compared to last 10 years.

Replying to another question, he said an agreement with Russia would hopefully be finalised following which low-cost crude oil will start arriving in Pakistan.

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 09 2023

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