Due to concerns over possible price hikes, residents in several cities across the nation are flocking to petrol stations.
This has resulted in long lines forming outside fuel stations in cities such as Gojrha, Gujranwala, Khushab, Sargodha, Chills, and Faisalabad.
In certain regions, customers are reporting that they are only able to purchase limited amounts of petrol, such as Rs200 for motorcycle owners and Rs500 for car owners.
However, petrol station owners have stated that the scarcity is due to restricted supply from petroleum product dealers.
As the government continues its negotiations with the International Monetary Fund, people are taking precautions by filling up their tanks with fuel.
The fear of a potential increase in prices has triggered this panic buying, causing chaos at gasoline pumps.
State Minister for Petroleum, Musadik Malik, has addressed the recent media reports regarding the fuel shortage and long lines at petrol pumps.
He inquired about the alleged fuel rationing in the country and took swift action by holding a meeting with representatives of all oil marketing companies.
Malik confirmed that the country has enough fuel stocks, with over 20 days worth of petrol and 25 days worth of diesel.
He encouraged fuel station owners not to cause panic among the public and reassured that there will not be an immediate increase in petrol prices.
According to the minister, the new petrol prices will only be fixed on February 15, as per the federal government’s mechanism. He vehemently denied the reports of fuel rationing and instead accused individuals of hoarding fuel.
He warned that those found hoarding fuel will face administrative measures.The minister also emphasized that the ongoing negotiations with the IMF have no connection to the current petrol prices in the country.
He reassured the public that there is no cause for alarm and that fuel supplies are secure.
Source: GEO NEWSÂ