ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik has constituted a high-level committee to address the concerns of the Oil Tankers Contractors Association, following a meeting with the association’s representatives in Islamabad.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed key issues, including the White Oil Pipeline quota, the freight formula and demands for an increase in transportation charges. It was agreed that the outstanding matters would be resolved through mutual consultation.
The petroleum minister announced the formation of a committee headed by the Special Secretary for Petroleum. The committee will include representatives from the Directorate General of Oil (DG Oil), the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and the Oil Tankers Contractors Association. It has been tasked with submitting its recommendations within one week.
Ali Pervaiz Malik said the government’s foremost priority was to ensure the uninterrupted supply of petroleum products across the country.
He also directed OGRA to address the oil tanker owners’ legitimate demands on a priority basis and instructed oil marketing companies to submit written policies governing freight contracts.
The minister further directed OGRA to strengthen the tracking of oil tankers and ensure that dealers’ vehicles are kept separate from primary fuel transportation operations.
Speaking after the meeting, Oil Tankers Contractors Association President Abidullah Afridi said transport charges had not been revised for the past three years.
He expressed hope that the committee would resolve the industry’s concerns, adding that the petroleum minister had sought seven days to address the issues.
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