The government has announced the introduction of an app-based quota and voucher system for fair distribution of petrol in the country, in which a specific quota will be set for each vehicle.
According to sources, users will register in the app through their vehicle registration number and identity card, and will receive a digital voucher from the app. The user’s voucher will be scanned or entered into the app at the petrol pump, and the system will automatically provide fuel according to the available quota. For example, if a user asks for 20 litres and his remaining quota is only 15 litres, only 15 litres will be provided.
The officials also clarified that the government has ensured the timely determination of prices so that petrol pump owners do not face licensing or price hike issues, and situations like the 2020 fuel crisis can be avoided.
A joint meeting between the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and the Ministry of IT, Finance, and Petroleum Division has decided to introduce an app-based quota system to streamline the supply of petrol across the country. According to officials, this system will be fully automated, and through it, fuel will be provided to consumers as per the fixed quota.
The meeting informed that under the new system, a separate mobile app will be introduced for consumers, in which they will register using their vehicle registration number and national identity card. Consumers will receive a digital voucher through the app, which will be scanned and verified at the petrol pump. If the user requests more fuel than the quota, the system will automatically supply petrol only as per the available quota.
According to sources, a special app for petrol pumps will be provided on pre-installed mobile phones, and it will be mandatory for each outlet to have at least 2 mobile phones. The IT Ministry is in touch with manufacturers to supply these devices. Initially, the cost of one device is estimated at around Rs 36,000, while the market price is up to Rs 72,000. Petrol pumps will have to deposit money in the government’s designated account to procure the devices.
OGRA has directed oil marketing companies to appoint a focal person for each petrol pump and submit their details, including name, identity card number, and mobile number, immediately, so that there is no hindrance in the implementation of the system.
According to officials, the aim of implementing this system is to ensure fair distribution of fuel, effective use of subsidies, and prevention of black marketing. The IT Ministry will also provide training sessions, demos, and video tutorials for petrol pump owners.
The sources further said that the country is currently facing challenges regarding fuel supply, and the government is also in touch with Iran and Saudi Arabia for alternative sources. In this context, efforts are being made to implement this new system quickly so that an uninterrupted supply of petrol can be ensured across the country.
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