Petrol Pumps to Remain Closed Nationwide on August 15 as Talks Between Government and Dealers Fail

ISLAMABAD: Negotiations between the government and petroleum dealers failed to make progress, prompting the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) to maintain its decision to shut petrol pumps across the country on Saturday, August 15.

Sources said lengthy talks were held between petroleum dealers and the Ministry of Petroleum under the chairmanship of Federal Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik. However, the two sides failed to reach a final agreement.

Dealers’ Demands

Petroleum dealers say the government has not agreed to change the mechanism for daily adjustments in petroleum product prices.

During the negotiations, the government assured dealers that their demand for an increase of Rs1.34 per litre in the dealers’ margin would be considered. However, approval of the increase is subject to endorsement by the federal cabinet.

The association said that, due to the lack of significant progress in the negotiations, it had not withdrawn its strike call.

Emergency Meeting Called

Following the unsuccessful talks, the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association called an emergency meeting of its executive committee in Karachi. The meeting will discuss the future course of action regarding the strike.

For now, the association has maintained its announcement to keep petrol pumps closed nationwide on August 15. A further decision may be taken after the executive committee meeting.

Possible Impact on Public

If the strike goes ahead as planned, the availability of petroleum products could be affected across the country on August 15.

Citizens have been advised to check the operational status of petrol pumps in their areas and follow the latest announcements while planning their travel.

The situation could change if the government and petroleum dealers resume negotiations. Citizens have therefore been advised to follow updates from the relevant authorities and the dealers’ association for the final decision.