15,000 petrol pumps may shut across Pakistan amid industry standoff

Petrol pump owners across Pakistan have warned that a nationwide shutdown could be triggered if the government does not address their unresolved concerns. The All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners Association said it has formally sought an urgent meeting with Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik after an earlier letter sent this month reportedly went unanswered.

According to the association, the petroleum retail sector is grappling with operational difficulties, financial stress, pricing disputes, and abrupt policy changes. It said fuel station operators want to be consulted before major decisions are taken so that industry issues can be handled more effectively.

Representatives of the association, which says it speaks for around 14,000 to 15,000 pump owners, warned that failure to respond may force retailers to suspend operations across the country. They said any supply disruption or resulting fuel crisis would be the responsibility of the Petroleum Division.