Authority denies fuel shortage concerns, says reserves sufficient to meet demand
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has directed all Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to ensure they maintain the required 20-day fuel reserves to guarantee uninterrupted supply across Pakistan, as regional tensions rise due to the Iran-Israel conflict.
In a statement on Saturday, OGRA spokesperson Imran Ghaznavi stressed that the directive aligns with the terms of the companies’ licenses.
“OGRA underscores the need for full compliance with these conditions to ensure smooth and steady fuel availability nationwide,” Ghaznavi said, adding that current petroleum stocks are adequate to meet the country’s existing consumption levels.
He assured that OGRA is actively monitoring the situation, with strict oversight measures in place to safeguard national energy security. The authority is also taking proactive steps to address future energy needs amid shifting market dynamics.
“OGRA remains committed to ensuring a stable energy supply and strengthening the country’s energy security,” Ghaznavi added.
Iran-Israel conflict fuels regional uncertainty
The latest hostilities between Iran and Israel have escalated into their fiercest direct clash to date, marked by large-scale attacks from both sides.
On June 13, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a surprise offensive targeting Iran’s military leadership, nuclear infrastructure, and ballistic missile facilities. The strikes reportedly killed hundreds, including senior Iranian commanders and nuclear scientists.
In response, Iran fired waves of drones and missiles at Israeli military and civilian targets over the weekend. The attacks left at least 24 dead and dozens injured in Israel. Iranian officials claim over 400 civilians, including women and children, have been killed in Israeli strikes.
Among the Iranian casualties were the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ intelligence chief, two senior generals, and eight nuclear scientists.
