Petrol Pumps to Shut Down Across Pakistan After Independence Day

On August 15, petrol pumps across Pakistan will cease operations indefinitely, according to the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA). The decision follows a meeting of dealers nationwide, who are demanding an increase in their petrol dealer margin from the current insufficient level. The PPDA has previously postponed its planned strike after receiving assurances from the government that outstanding issues would be resolved, but the deadline has now passed without a satisfactory solution.

The association has informed the government that pressure is mounting among their 14,000-member strong membership. Meanwhile, a nationwide strike by goods transporters continues unabated, with negotiations between the government and transport representatives failing to reach a settlement. Previously, petrol dealers had suspended their nationwide closure following talks with Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, who had assured them that their demands would be addressed.

They have now called for a review of the system and faster implementation of previously agreed measures. If no agreement is reached within the 72-hour deadline, petrol pumps will commence closing across the country starting Saturday, August 15.