Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved a weekly pricing mechanism for petroleum products in view of the evolving regional situation and potential energy challenges.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the committee on petroleum product stocks and consumption, chaired by the prime minister in Islamabad.
During the meeting, the finance minister briefed the premier on the current fuel supply situation and policy options.
According to sources, the committee presented recommendations regarding weekly adjustments in petroleum prices, which were approved by the prime minister.
Under the proposed framework, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) will review and recommend weekly petroleum price adjustments. After ECC approval, the final summary will be submitted to the federal cabinet for formal approval.
Sources added that a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing potential energy challenges—similar to measures adopted during the COVID-19 period—has been finalized and may be announced soon.
The prime minister also directed the finance minister to consult with provincial governments and present a proposal on work-from-home arrangements for offices by Monday. Additionally, a plan for virtual learning in educational institutions is also under consideration.
Officials believe these measures could help reduce fuel demand and ensure efficient use of existing petroleum stocks.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Petroleum informed the meeting that the country currently has adequate petroleum reserves to meet national requirements.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif further instructed authorities to take strict legal action against hoarders of petroleum products. He directed that petrol pumps found involved in creating artificial shortages should be immediately shut down.
The prime minister also ordered the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) to cancel the licenses of petrol pumps involved in artificial shortages and initiate legal proceedings against them.
He directed the petroleum minister to visit provinces and coordinate with provincial governments to develop a strategy ensuring fuel conservation and uninterrupted supply to the public.
Furthermore, the prime minister instructed authorities to establish a digital dashboard to monitor the movement of petroleum products, allowing real-time data sharing with provincial governments to ensure transparent monitoring of fuel transportation across the country.
