ISLAMABAD: A severe diesel shortage has gripped various parts of Pakistan, triggered by speculation of an imminent price increase for petroleum products. The crisis emerged after private oil companies reportedly halted diesel supplies across the country starting November 16.
The disruption in supply has led to acute shortages in numerous cities, severely impacting transportation and other sectors reliant on the fuel. Noman Butt, Vice Chairman of the Petroleum Dealers Association, confirmed that private companies have stopped supplying diesel for the past three days, creating what he described as an “artificial shortage.” While diesel is still being supplied from Pakistan State Oil (PSO) depots, Butt stated that the quantity is insufficient to meet the nationwide demand, with companies setting quotas and repeatedly canceling orders.
In response to the growing crisis, the Petroleum Dealers Association has written a letter to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), urging immediate intervention. The association has appealed to the regulator to obligate oil companies to provide the required quantity of diesel to end the artificial shortage.
The panic and subsequent supply freeze are linked to a anticipated government price revision. According to sources, an initial working plan for new prices, effective from November 16, has been prepared. Based on global market trends, diesel prices are expected to rise by approximately Rs. 9.60 per liter. The plan also suggests a price increase of Rs. 8.82 for kerosene and Rs. 7.15 for light diesel oil, while a minor reduction of Rs. 1.96 per liter is proposed for petrol. OGRA is set to send this plan to the Petroleum Division on November 15, after which a final decision will be taken following approval from the Prime Minister.
Meanwhile PCB announces that Cicket fans can now secure their seats for the upcoming T20 International (T20I) tri-series featuring Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe, with tickets for all matches going on sale starting today.
The series, a thrilling precursor to the T20 World Cup, is scheduled to commence on November 18. All the high-octane matches will be held at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, promising a festival of cricket for local enthusiasts. To accommodate different segments of fans, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a tiered pricing structure, making the event accessible to a wide audience.
