PM Shehbaz orders strict action to curb artificial fuel shortage

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the authorities concerned to work closely with the provincial governments and take strict action against those involved in creating an artificial shortage of petroleum products. He was chairing a meeting in Islamabad today to review austerity measures in the evolving economic situation. The Prime Minister said uncertainty in the region persists and ordered to remain fully prepared to effectively deal with any possible challenges. He said the country’s economy is currently stable. He, however, directed the authorities to prepare a comprehensive contingency plan to ensure timely action if the situation demands. Shehbaz Sharif also appreciated the masses for their wholehearted cooperation during the previous national austerity campaign, particularly in conserving petroleum products and energy, and thanked them for their support. He said the government’s timely and effective strategy had ensured smooth management of the country’s fuel supply. He added that the government had protected the interests of the common man, motorcyclists, rickshaw drivers and transporters. The Prime Minister said the subsidy provided by the government had effectively mitigated the impact of rising fuel prices on the public. He observed that prolonged regional tensions could have adverse implications for Pakistan’s economy in the future. He emphasized that, just as the nation actively supported the previous austerity drive, the spirit of austerity and the prudent use of resources must now be adopted at the national level. The meeting was informed that sufficient stocks of petroleum products are available to meet the country’s requirements and that arrangements have already been made to ensure uninterrupted supplies in the future