PM tells petroleum ministry to resolve fuel supply issues

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Tuesday that in order to improve the supply chain of Pakistan’s petroleum imports, Minister of Petroleum should become more proactive. The PM said this while reviewing a meeting on implementation of fuel conservation and austerity measures in view of the regional situation, said a press release by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). The meeting was informed that the entire situation was being monitored and records of petroleum products were being maintained to immediately detect any irregularities. The prime minister emphasised that all relevant departments should remain prepared for emergency measures until the situation improves. READ MORE: Pakistan ensures fuel availability through ‘most of’ April amid improving external indicators It was informed that the country has an adequate stock of petroleum products to meet requirements and that the implementation of the instructions issued by the PM was being ensured. It was further informed that the Intelligence Bureau will present a monitoring report on the implementation of all measures. The meeting was informed that the cabinet members have voluntarily not taken their salaries. Positive results are emerging from the reduction of fuel usage in government departments. The savings measures will help provide relief to the public in the current situation. The meeting was informed that an adequate stock of medicines is available in the country to meet national requirements. Earlier, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Muhammad Aurangzeb, emphasised that the government remained fully focused on ensuring the uninterrupted availability of petroleum products across the country. He noted that the current stock position and supply outlook remain stable and that, based on the reports presented, there is no basis for panic buying or unnecessary stockpiling of fuel. The finance minister directed all concerned ministries, regulators, and agencies to maintain close coordination and continue rigorous monitoring of stock levels and supply flows so that the fuel supply chain remains smooth and public confidence is maintained through timely and accurate information.