Islamabad: Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb has underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted fuel availability, enhancing transparency, and safeguarding consumer interests.

According to Radio Pakistan, Senator Aurangzeb chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee to Monitor Petrol Prices in Islamabad, focusing on the petroleum supply situation and market conditions post the recent price adjustment. The Minister highlighted that maintaining market stability necessitates proactive coordination, effective monitoring, and consistent enforcement.

The meeting resolved to deploy joint teams from the Petroleum Division, OGRA, FIA, and Pakistan State Oil to selected PSO petrol pumps in Islamabad. These teams aim to support timely data entry, improve stock transparency, and ensure operational compliance. The primary objectives included ensuring supply continuity, maintaining market discipline, and strengthening monitoring mechanisms across the supply chain.

The committee conducted a comprehensive review of petroleum stock positions, import plans, and refinery operations. The meeting was informed that the overall supply position remains stable, with diesel and petrol stocks providing adequate cover for consumer demand, supported by incoming cargoes and scheduled imports.

The Petroleum Division assured that import arrangements for the coming weeks are on track through both commercial and government-to-government engagements. Refineries are operating at optimal levels to maintain throughput and ensure efficient conversion of crude into refined products.

The committee emphasized vigilance across the supply chain to prevent hoarding and speculative behavior. It also reviewed the gas supply situation and discussed options for managing gas availability for domestic consumers and its allocation between domestic and power sectors.

Senator Aurangzeb stressed the importance of timely data integration and directed stakeholders to ensure accurate information sharing to support decision-making. OGRA was tasked with ensuring compliance with data reporting requirements, accelerating digitization efforts, and maintaining close coordination with Oil Marketing Companies to support the seamless implementation of the system. PSO was directed to enhance visibility and reporting coverage across its retail network.