Uncertainty continues to surround the planned nationwide shutdown of petrol pumps as petroleum dealers across Pakistan remain divided over calls for an indefinite strike to press the government to accept their demands.
The All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners Association has announced an indefinite nationwide strike in support of higher dealer margins and other demands. However, the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) has not yet decided whether it will join the protest.
The differing positions of the two organizations have created confusion over whether petrol pumps across the country will remain open. While one association is preparing for a shutdown, the PPDA says it will make a final decision after a meeting scheduled in Karachi on Wednesday.
PPDA Vice President Tariq Hassan said the government has assured petroleum dealers that their concerns will be addressed. According to him, officials have requested one week to complete the approval process related to the dealers’ demands.
Hassan stated that the PPDA’s central committee will review the government’s response before deciding whether to participate in the strike. He added that no final decision has been made by the association at this stage.
He also said the strike announcement by the All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners Association was made without consulting the PPDA. As a result, the PPDA is currently not participating in the planned shutdown and will announce its position after Wednesday’s meeting.
According to Hassan, recent discussions with government officials were positive. He said authorities agreed in principle with several demands raised by petroleum dealers and are now seeking the prime minister’s approval on key proposals.
Among the issues under discussion are an increase in dealer commissions and the restoration of the previous petroleum pricing mechanism. Dealers argue that current commission rates and frequent changes in fuel pricing have increased financial pressure on petrol pump operators.
With no unified decision among petroleum dealers, motorists are advised to monitor official announcements, as the final outcome of Wednesday’s meeting will determine whether a nationwide petrol pump strike goes ahead.
