Petroleum Dealers Divided Over Nationwide Strike Call

Uncertainty surrounds the planned nationwide shutdown of petrol pumps after petroleum dealers across Pakistan remained divided over calls for an indefinite strike to press the government to accept their demands.

The All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners Association has announced an indefinite nationwide strike. However, the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) said it has not yet decided whether to join the protest and will make a final decision during a meeting in Karachi on Wednesday.

The disagreement has created confusion over whether fuel stations across the country will remain open, with different groups holding opposing views on using a shutdown to push for higher dealer margins.

PPDA Vice President Tariq Hassan said the government had assured dealers that their concerns would be addressed and requested one week to complete the approval process. He said the association’s central committee would decide its next course of action after reviewing the government’s response.

Hassan said the strike announcement by the Petrol Pump Owners Association was made without consulting the PPDA. He added that his association is not participating in the strike at this stage and will make a final decision after Wednesday’s meeting.

According to Hassan, recent discussions with the government were positive, and officials agreed in principle with the dealers’ demands. He said the government is now seeking the prime minister’s approval on key issues, including an increase in dealer commissions and restoring the previous fuel pricing mechanism.