LAHORE: Due to road closure following the ongoing protest, the disruption in the supply of petroleum products has turned into a crisis-like situation.
Panic buying by travelers has exacerbated the situation, leading to rapid stock depletion amid already low supply.
Demanding smooth flow of traffic, the Petroleum Dealers Association has said that disruption in the supply chain has raised concerns over possible shortage of petroleum products across Punjab, including the provincial capital.
If the current situation continues, it may have dire consequences. While petrol consumption has reportedly dropped by 20 to 30 per cent due to the closure of motorways, the overall supply chain disruption has Demand remained largely unchanged.
In light of the growing supply crisis, the Oil Tankers Association has urged the government to open alternative routes, highlighting the challenges faced in getting oil to depot pumps. He warned that delayed deliveries could further exacerbate the crisis and called for alternative routes to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Northern Territories and the twin cities.
Meanwhile, an Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) spokesperson said that OGRA, along with the Petroleum Division, has contacted law enforcement agencies through chief secretaries and local administrations to facilitate the operation of oil tankers carrying petroleum products. Transportation can be ensured from retail stores.
A communication channel has also been established between the oil marketing companies and the district administration or law enforcement agencies to resolve transportation issues and mitigate the impact of the crisis.