Shafaqna Pakistan: The government on Friday instructed state-owned fuel retailers to expand their liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage capacity to maintain reserves sufficient for at least 30 days of demand, amid supply concerns linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Speaking to the media, a Petroleum Ministry official said the government is pursuing efforts to establish strategic fuel reserves. Oil marketing companies have been directed to develop plans ensuring LPG stocks can meet a minimum of 30 days of consumption. The official noted that work on these plans is already underway.
The government also reassured the public that existing supplies of petrol, diesel, LPG, crude oil, and natural gas remain sufficient. Refineries are operating at optimal capacity, while LPG production has reached a record level of approximately 52,000 tonnes per day.
According to the official, the increase in retail fuel sales is being driven by both agricultural demand and a shift in purchasing patterns, with bulk consumers and customers of private fuel retailers increasingly turning to state-run outlets because of price differences.
More than 150 districts have reported petrol sales growth exceeding 30 per cent, while sales have more than doubled in 14 districts. Diesel sales have increased by over 30 per cent in 156 districts, with six districts recording growth of more than 100 per cent.
The official further stated that diesel sales by private fuel retailers have declined by 38 per cent, while bulk diesel sales through state-owned oil marketing companies have fallen by 29 per cent.
She added that LPG supply continued to be affected by the prevailing geopolitical situation. However, supply to domestic households has been prioritised, and no dry-outs have been reported at LPG distributorships.
The government is closely monitoring the situation and has advised states and union territories to form special squads to curb hoarding and black marketing. Consumers have also been urged to avoid panic buying and purchase fuel only through authorised channels
Source: Shafaqna India
