Petroleum dealers have announced an indefinite nationwide strike from August 15. The decision follows failed negotiations with the government.
The dealers are seeking changes to the daily adjustment system for petroleum product prices. They have raised concerns about the current method of adjusting fuel prices.
Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association Chairman Malik Khuda Baksh confirmed the strike decision. He said talks with the government failed to resolve the dealers’ main concerns.
According to the association, the government refused to change the daily fuel price adjustment mechanism. The dealers had sought changes to the existing pricing system.
The government did offer a possible increase in dealers’ margins. Officials assured the dealers that their margin could increase by Rs. 1.34.
However, the proposed increase requires approval from the federal cabinet. The dealers rejected the outcome of the negotiations.
The association then decided to proceed with the nationwide strike. The shutdown is scheduled to begin on Saturday morning, August 15.
The strike will continue indefinitely, according to the dealers. They have not indicated a specific date for ending the protest.
The announcement comes after dealers previously issued a 72-hour deadline. They had asked the government to address their demands within that period.
The dealers had also warned of a nationwide shutdown if their concerns remained unresolved. The latest announcement confirms that warning has now been acted upon.
The dispute mainly concerns the mechanism used to determine petroleum prices. Dealers have called for changes following more frequent adjustments in fuel prices.
They argue that the existing system has created concerns for fuel retailers. Their demands include changes to the adjustment process and better margins.
The proposed Rs. 1.34 margin increase could provide some financial relief. However, dealers maintain that it does not address their broader concerns.
The strike could affect fuel station operations across the country. Consumers may face difficulties if dealers close their outlets for an extended period.
The development also comes as a separate transport strike continues nationwide. Goods transporters have entered the sixth day of their protest.
Talks between transporters and the federal government have failed to reach an agreement. Negotiations with the Sindh government have also not produced a settlement.
All Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance President Malik Shahzad Awan said the transport strike would continue. He said their demands must first be accepted and formally notified.
Awan also urged transporters to remain peaceful during the protest. He asked them to avoid blocking roads and disrupting public movement.
The two strikes could create additional pressure on transportation and fuel supplies. Businesses may also face challenges if disruptions continue.
Petroleum dealers and transporters are currently seeking government action on their respective demands. Further negotiations could determine whether either strike is suspended.
In other related news also read Govt Absorbs Oil Price Drop by Raising Petroleum Levy
For now, Petroleum dealers plan to begin their indefinite nationwide strike on August 15. The government may need further discussions to resolve the dispute.
