ISLAMABAD: The Petroleum Division is cognizant of the “artificial” shortage of POL products that is being created in the country by “opportunist” OMCs and petrol dealers, the spokesperson said and added that the Petroleum Division emphatically states that there is sufficient quantity of petrol stocks in the country.
“Additional production by refineries as well as planned imports is on schedule to meet the monthly needs. It is unfortunate that some OMCs and/or their dealers have resorted to such methods for profit maximization that are having an adverse impact on the lives of the esteemed consumers,” according to Petroleum Division.
The Petroleum Division has asked Ogra to take action against the OMCs who are not maintaining the required stocks or whose pumps are dry.
“We are also recommending termination of dealer licenses, if they do not order sufficient product from their respective OMCs. Information and complaints being received by the Petroleum Division are being forwarded to the Ogra for deployment of vigilance teams against low stocks and overcharging,” the spokesperson said.
The Ogra has issued show cause notices to six OMCs and demanded immediate response.
The spokesperson reiterated Petroleum Division’s affirmation in ensuring that “culprits are brought to book.”
If OMCs/dealers are not meeting their licenses conditions, the OGRA will consider suspending or canceling their licenses.
Meanwhile, the Petroleum Division has instructed the PSO to increase its imports and supplies. Refineries have also been directed to ensure sufficient operations to make planned imports to meet projected demand.
Oil stocks in the country on Thursday were “sufficient”.
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) and the Ministry of Energy are taking all possible measures to ensure adequate supply to retail outlets.
The Oil Marketing Companies have been advised to ensure import of committed cargos and refineries to ensure committed production for the month of June 2020. The district management of all the provinces, the GB and the AJK have been advised to ensure the availability of petrol on retail outlets and advise the Ogra in case of any complaint of hoarding, stated spokesman for Ogra.
