Body of oil tanker owners to halt fuel supply in protest from today

ISLAMABAD: The Oil Tankers Owners’ Association declared on Monday that fuel supply would be suspended starting today (Tuesday), citing what it termed as unjust measurements by the concerned authorities.

In a statement released to the press, the association declared its decision to halt the supply of petroleum products in several regions, including Gilgit-Baltistan, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), as well as to airports.

According to the oil tankers association, attempts were made to address their concerns with Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and the Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad, but their grievances were left unattended. "The supply will remain suspended until our demands are met," emphasized the Oil Tankers Owner Association.

Among the demands put forward by the association is the implementation of filling under a metered system. They alleged that the authorities had breached the agreement reached on February 20, which has led to the current standoff.

"The suspension of fuel supply will serve as a symbolic protest until our demands are addressed," reiterated the association. The decision to halt fuel supply raises concerns about potential disruptions in transportation, heating, and other essential services across the affected regions. With winter still lingering in some parts, the suspension could exacerbate hardships faced by residents and businesses.

Efforts to reach authorities for comment on the situation were unsuccessful at the time of this report. This development underscores the ongoing challenges faced by various sectors in Pakistan, amidst broader economic uncertainties and issues related to governance and regulation.