The Vice Chairman of Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association announced a nationwide strike in a conversation with the media today, resulting in the closure of petrol pumps across the country for 24 hours. This action was taken due to the association’s dissatisfaction with the government’s management of petroleum prices and their demands.
The association has presented a list of five demands to the government, stating that the current 24-hour petroleum prices are unacceptable. The central point of their demands is to increase their profit margin to 8 percent, which is a significant increase from the current rate.
Additionally, the association insists on being included in the governmental decision-making process related to the petroleum sector. They also demand the elimination of charges on bank card transactions, which they claim increase unnecessary expenses for both dealers and consumers.
Another important demand is the guarantee of fuel supply according to dealers’ needs to prevent shortages and ensure smooth operations across the country.
The dealers have warned that if their demands are not met, they will take further steps, indicating broader measures if the negotiations with the government do not yield satisfactory results. The strike highlights the ongoing tension between the petroleum sector and the government, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue and resolution.