Regulator Assures Sufficient Stocks, Warns Against Panic Buying
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) issued a stern warning on Thursday, stating that any premises found involved in the illegal storage of petroleum products will be sealed. The regulator emphasized that strict action will be taken against individuals or entities hoarding fuel at unauthorized locations outside of licensed oil depots and retail outlets.
National Supply “Comfortable” Amid Regional Monitoring
An Ogra spokesperson moved to reassure the public, stating that the country currently holds sufficient stocks of petroleum products to meet national demand. “The existing stock position remains comfortable and well within the prescribed requirements,” the authority said in a statement. Officials confirmed they are closely monitoring the petroleum supply chain due to the prevailing geopolitical situation to ensure uninterrupted availability across Pakistan.
Coordinated Inspections Launched to Curb Profiteering
The crackdown comes amid reports that certain elements may attempt to hoard petroleum products for profiteering. To prevent this, Ogra has requested all provincial chief secretaries to direct deputy commissioners to conduct inspections within their jurisdictions. Teams from Ogra are also actively monitoring the situation in the field, carrying out checks at oil depots and retail outlets to prevent malpractice and ensure smooth supply.
The public has been advised to ignore rumors and maintain normal consumption patterns, as the supply situation remains stable.
High-Level Committee Prioritizes Uninterrupted Supply
In a separate high-level meeting, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stated that ensuring the uninterrupted availability of petroleum products is the government’s top priority. He chaired a committee, constituted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, to monitor petrol prices in light of the emerging regional situation.
The committee was briefed that national reserves are at comfortable levels with sufficient cover for key products, and there is no immediate cause for concern regarding availability. The body reviewed multiple supply and pricing scenarios to ensure preparedness under different contingencies.
Committee Eyes Market Volatility and Enforcement
The committee noted that “war premium” dynamics and intensified competition for energy cargoes in Asian markets could raise external account pressures if volatility persists. It reviewed efforts to strengthen supply assurance through diversified sourcing and logistics.
To safeguard orderly market conditions, the committee discussed measures to deter hoarding, illegal storage, and diversion. This includes coordinated enforcement actions by provincial administrations in collaboration with Ogra and relevant agencies. The body emphasized that preventing smuggling and ensuring uninterrupted domestic distribution will remain a top operational priority, backed by real-time field intelligence and strict action against violations.
The committee is set to finalize its recommendations for submission to the prime minister and will continue to meet daily to monitor developments.
