By Our Correspondent
KARACHI: Pakistan could face widespread fuel shortages and transport disruptions after the All Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association announced an indefinite nationwide strike beginning at 12:00am on July 22, following the collapse of talks with the federal government.
The planned shutdown is expected to affect millions of motorists, transport operators, businesses, and industries if the dispute remains unresolved. With petrol pumps across the country set to suspend operations, long queues at filling stations and panic buying may emerge ahead of the strike.
The association said negotiations with the Federal Minister for Petroleum failed to produce an agreement on key demands, including an increase in dealers’ profit margins and concerns over the proposed introduction of daily fuel price revisions.
It announced that all member petrol pumps nationwide would remain closed from midnight until the government accepts its demands.
If implemented, the strike could disrupt public transport services, freight movement, supply chains, and emergency fuel availability. Commercial activity may also slow as businesses dependent on fuel-powered logistics face operational challenges.
Industry observers warn that prolonged closure of filling stations could have a ripple effect on the economy, delaying the movement of goods, increasing transportation costs, and creating difficulties for commuters. However, the actual impact will depend on the duration of the strike and whether negotiations resume.
The association has directed petrol pump owners to fully participate in the strike while ensuring that the protest remains peaceful. It has also urged the government to take what it called a fair and acceptable decision on the industry’s demands.
Government officials have not yet announced any breakthrough in negotiations or contingency measures to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies.
Motorists are advised to stay updated on official announcements and avoid panic buying, as any further developments in negotiations could alter the situation.
Tags: Petrol pumps, Nationwide strike, Fuel shortage, Pakistan, Petroleum dealers, Fuel supply, Transport, Business News, Pakistan economy
