Pumps in Punjab, Islamabad Likely to Run Out of Fuel [Updated]

Pump stations in Punjab, Islamabad and Rawalpindi are likely to run out of fuel and cause a shortage in the region. The government’s latest lockdown to prevent a large-scale protest in the federal capital has disrupted the fuel supply chain in key cities like Lahore and Rawalpindi. Petroleum Dealers Association officials have warned that Lahore’s stock at some pumps was critically low, while supply to Rawalpindi stations will empty in just days. The roadblocks have restricted fuel deliveries and critically impacted the region’s fuel reserves. Petroleum Dealers Association Secretary Khawaja Atif highlighted that Lahore’s daily fuel consumption exceeds five million litres, while Punjab overall requires 50 million litres. The current disruption could lead to severe consequences unless roads are reopened to restore supply. President of the Petroleum Dealers Association North, Chaudhry Zafar Elahi said petrol reserves, typically lasting three to four days, are now depleting rapidly. He urged authorities to open roads for at least a few hours daily to ensure deliveries. The crisis is compounded in smaller cities like Gujranwala, Jhelum, and Sialkot, where fuel stations have run dry due to halted oil tanker movements. The Oil Tanker Contractors Association confirmed that thousands of tankers remain stranded and are being denied entry into Punjab. In Islamabad, though petrol is available, the absence of new supplies from depots due to road closures has raised concerns about potential shortages. The Oil Companies Advisory Council has criticized the lack of safe routes for tankers and warned of worsening shortages if highway blockages persist. Prolonged fuel shortages will further cripple economic activity in Punjab. Lahore serves as a key commercial hub of the province will likely see the biggest hit in the area.