Shortage Will Push Petrol to Rs. 1,000/Litre: Ali Pervaiz Malik

Federal Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik has issued a warning that petrol prices in Pakistan could soar to Rs. 1,000 per litre if a shortage occurs. Speaking to the media in Lahore, Malik stated that the current petrol supply is not in short supply, but prices could skyrocket if scarcity arises. He pointed out that oil prices have surged significantly in Europe and the United States, with a 80 percent increase in international oil prices.

Malik revealed that Pakistan has only managed to pass on around 50 percent of this price increase to consumers.

To prevent gas shortages during the winter months, the government has pledged to bear the entire cost of $100 million worth of gas imports, compared to the previous $3 million. The minister also disclosed that fuel-related tokens amounting to Rs. 180 million were distributed on a single day, on Friday. Malik announced that the government has initiated the drilling process at oil wells, and they anticipate discovering oil reserves before October.

When faced with political criticism, Malik urged everyone to refrain from politicizing the challenges faced by citizens. Moreover, he emphasized that no one would be permitted to stage a march in Islamabad.