Petrol Relief Scheme faced implementation challenges on its first day as several petrol stations reported difficulties using the digital system. The scheme was launched nationwide to provide petrol at a discounted price of Rs. 100 per litre for eligible consumers.
Some petrol pumps refused to process discounted fuel sales because they did not have the required system or complete information about the digital process. The issues created confusion among dealers and consumers during the initial phase.
Following complaints, Information Technology Minister Shaza Fatima visited several petrol stations in Rawalpindi. She reviewed the implementation process and checked whether registered consumers were able to receive subsidised petrol.
The government later held discussions with petroleum dealers to address concerns related to the reimbursement process. The Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) had earlier raised questions about how dealers would receive subsidy payments.
Government Explains Reimbursement Process
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik met representatives of the PPDA on Thursday. Officials from relevant ministries also attended the meeting to discuss the concerns.
The meeting was attended virtually by PPDA Chairman Malik Khuda Baksh, who led the dealers’ delegation. During the session, the State Bank of Pakistan explained the payment mechanism for petrol dealers.
The SBP assured dealers that subsidy claims would be processed within 48 hours. The system aims to ensure timely reimbursement for petrol stations participating in the scheme.
The Ministry of Information Technology also explained the digital platform behind the Petrol Relief Scheme. Officials informed dealers about a dedicated control room for resolving technical problems.
Petrol stations can contact the helpline at 9772 for assistance regarding system issues, complaints, and other queries.
Funding and Dealer Support
Officials said the government has allocated funds for three months to support the initiative. An amount of Rs. 25 billion has already been provided to the State Bank of Pakistan for the first month.
PPDA Chairman Malik Khuda Baksh welcomed the scheme but said a lack of clarity about subsidy payments caused confusion among dealers.
He assured the government that petroleum dealers across Pakistan would cooperate with the initiative.
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik appreciated the dealers’ support. He stressed the importance of coordination between all stakeholders for smooth implementation.
OCAC Raises Fuel Supply Concerns
Separately, the Oil Companies Advisory Committee (OCAC) warned about possible pressure on Pakistan’s fuel supply chain.
The committee said oil companies are facing outstanding price differential claims worth around Rs. 67 billion. It stated that these pending payments have increased financial pressure on the industry.
OCAC Secretary General Dr Nazir Abbas Zaidi highlighted the issue in a letter to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra). He said oil companies are dealing with liquidity challenges due to delayed payments.
The committee also pointed toward possible risks from regional supply disruptions. It said maintaining fuel availability could become difficult if financial issues continue.
The OCAC requested authorities to speed up verification and payment of approved claims. It also called for improvements in the margin review system for oil marketing companies.
In other news read more about: PM’s Rs. 100 Petrol Relief Scheme Launches in Islamabad — Here’s Who Can Benefit
The government’s Petrol Relief Scheme aims to provide financial support to eligible consumers. Officials said better coordination and technical improvements will help address early challenges faced during the launch.
