Petrol pump owners have demanded a substantial Rs. 82.5 billion payout from the government to absorb the impact of the war-driven fuel crisis.
A meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat today reviewed financial pressures emerging in the energy sector and claims submitted by oil marketing companies (OMCs).
During the session, oil marketing companies demanded Rs. 82.5 billion from the government as compensation for increased costs linked to the recent Middle East war and volatility in global fuel markets.
Chairman Oil & Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) Barrister Nabeel Awan briefed the committee on payments made under the government’s fuel price adjustment mechanism. He said that on March 14, the government decided to absorb increases in international fuel prices to shield consumers.
He detailed that payments were released over three consecutive weeks, including Rs. 17–18 billion in the first week, Rs. 15 billion in the second week, and Rs. 18 billion in the third week. He added that around 40% of total dues had already been cleared, while significant outstanding payments still remain.
Officials further informed the committee that the government is expected to disburse an additional Rs. 50–55 billion to OMCs to settle remaining obligations.
The meeting was also informed that some companies allegedly claimed payments even in cases where no fuel sales or stock were available during the crisis period. Committee members called for strict action against such fraudulent claims.
Separately, Senator Aimal Wali Khan raised the issue of gas shortages in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He also highlighted disparities in salary structures across government departments.
The committee directed authorities to compile comprehensive salary data from all government departments for further review.
