ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to take strict action against the smuggling and illegal hoarding of petroleum products, citing the ongoing regional developments that have impacted fuel markets. The move comes amid heightened focus on maintaining uninterrupted petroleum supplies across the country.

The announcement followed assurances from President Asif Zardari and the prime minister in a high-level meeting that adequate fuel stocks are available to meet national demand, with additional arrangements underway to secure future supply. Shehbaz chaired a meeting to review the entire petroleum supply chain and implement measures to ensure efficiency and stability.

During the session, the prime minister emphasised the importance of protecting low-income groups affected by economic pressures. He instructed relevant ministries to finalise proposals for relief in consultation with provincial governments and submit them for approval, reinforcing the government’s commitment to shielding vulnerable citizens from rising fuel costs.

Shehbaz warned that no leniency would be shown against those involved in smuggling or hoarding petroleum, underlining the need for strict enforcement to maintain market stability. He praised the federal government’s efforts over the past three weeks to support underprivileged segments and pledged that such relief measures would continue.

The government has already provided Rs129 billion in relief to the public by reducing development expenditure and implementing austerity and savings measures. These efforts have prevented sharp increases in fuel prices while ensuring sufficient petroleum stocks to meet national requirements, the prime minister noted.

Officials briefed the meeting on progress in monitoring demand and supply through a digital dashboard, which tracks petroleum products and supply chain activity to ensure transparency and efficiency. Ministers present included Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, and Power Minister Awais Khan Leghari, highlighting the coordinated approach to energy security and public relief.