Karachi faces fuel shortage amid strike of petroleum dealers

Islamabad [Pakistan]: Karachi is battling a fuel crisis as the supply of petroleum products has run out due to the ongoing strike by the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association.

Closure of Petrol Stations

According to specifics, petrol stations in Karachi and throughout Pakistan were closed at 6 AM today at the PPDA's request. Sources claim that petroleum products are still being supplied from the ports of Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and other oil marketing organisations.

Oil Tanker Owners Association's Stance

The Oil Tanker Owners Association has disassociated itself from the petroleum merchants' walkout.

PSO's Assurance

The fuel shortage is experienced by people in Karachi at a time when Pakistan State Oil (PSO), the country's oil corporation, announced on Thursday that the supply of petroleum products will be ensured across the nation.

However, the demands are not met.

The oil corporation further stated that the supply chain is fully operational and said that petrol pumps would remain stocked despite the strike.

"Continuous supply of petrol at pumps is being ensured," stated a PSO spokesperson. PSO reiterated its readiness to serve the public. "PSO is always ready to serve the people," the spokesperson added, according to an ARY News report.

Nationwide Strike Continues

The All Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association continued its nationwide strike on Friday, putting a halt to the government delegation's negotiations with the association.

The government had talks with the All Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association following their demand for a strike but reports claim that the impasse between them still exists.

(With ANI Inputs)