‘No petrol’ complaints on no-CNG Tuesday

LAHORE: The city witnessed a petrol shortage on the CNG-less Tuesday with most petrol pump owners blaming the supply companies for inadequate supply.

In a survey by The Express Tribune, it was learnt that people selling petrol at standpoints or kiosks sold the indemand fuel at high prices. However, on being questioned, they shifted blame saying that the oil companies had increased their rates and hence, they had to increase their profit margins to make ends meet. A Model Town petrol pump owner said he did not understand the reason behind cutting back on the supply of petrol and gas.

A motorist said, “We have been compelled to opt for petrol on Tuesday but one feels nothing but anger when no petrol is available in the market.” Blaming the city district government and the price control authority, a commuter regretfully said that he purchased petrol for Rs85 from a small stand after being turned away from all petrol pumps around his area.

All Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association chairman Abdul Sami Khan said that no reason could be identified for such a shortage. He added that on contacting a supply company, he was told that no CNG station owners have demanded any petrol and hence, they did not supply. “I’m confident the problem will be solved within a day or so,” he said.

Published in the Express Tribune, May 13th, 2010.