By SKM
March 9, 2026
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s oil industry has appealed to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) after local administrations in several districts began sealing retail fuel stations that temporarily ran out of stocks amid panic buying triggered by regional tensions.
In a letter sent Monday, the Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC), which represents major oil marketing companies (OMCs), said an unusual surge in fuel demand has pushed retail sales volumes to nearly double normal levels in some areas.
The council said the spike is largely driven by panic buying linked to regional uncertainties, temporarily straining the country’s fuel retail network. While OMCs have ramped up tanker deliveries to replenish outlets, temporary stock depletion at some stations remains unavoidable.
Despite these ongoing efforts, OCAC reported that local authorities in some districts have begun sealing petrol pumps facing temporary shortages — a move the council warned could further disrupt the supply chain.
“Sealing outlets under these circumstances delays the resumption of sales after replenishment, creates operational complications for OMCs, and may inadvertently intensify public anxiety and panic buying,” the letter said.
OCAC has requested OGRA to issue guidance advising provincial and district administrations not to seal retail stations solely due to temporary stock shortages when deliveries are already in transit.
The industry body said timely regulatory intervention is essential to maintain the smooth functioning of the country’s fuel retail network and ensure uninterrupted supply of petroleum products.
OCAC also reaffirmed that its member companies remain committed to maintaining continuous fuel availability across Pakistan despite the surge in demand. Ends
