PPDA ends nationwide petrol pump strike in Pakistan

The Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) has decided to halt the nationwide petrol pump strike, bringing relief to motorists across the country. The announcement came during a press conference in Karachi, where PPDA Chairman Abdul Sami Khan, alongside other officials, declared the suspension of the strike. The primary reason cited for this sudden decision was the plight of tourists stranded in the northern regions of Pakistan, particularly in Malakand, Swat, and Hazara.

Abdul Sami Khan emphasized the challenges faced by both the public and the government due to the strike. He expressed concerns about the potential increase in the sale of smuggled petrol as a result of the government's taxation policies. The strike, initially a protest against federal budget taxes, led to the closure of some petrol stations in various cities and highways.

Despite initial disruptions, major cities like Lahore and Karachi mostly maintained operational petrol pumps. While some petrol stations in Karachi continued to function along specific routes, the majority of fuel stations in Lahore did not participate in the strike. The Petroleum Division and the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) issued directives to ensure the uninterrupted operation of petrol pumps, reassuring the public of a steady supply of petroleum products nationwide.

The decision to end the petrol pump strike by the PPDA is a welcome relief for both motorists and tourists in Pakistan. The resolution of this issue highlights the importance of effective communication and collaboration between stakeholders to address public concerns and ensure the smooth functioning of essential services.