Government plans real-time digital monitoring of petroleum supply chains to improve transparency, curb hoarding and strengthen regulatory oversight.
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to introduce a modern digital monitoring system across Pakistan’s oil and gas sector in a move aimed at eliminating profiteering, preventing hoarding and improving transparency throughout the country’s petroleum supply chain.
The directive was issued during a meeting in Islamabad with a delegation led by the World Bank’s country director. The delegation presented policy recommendations focused on strengthening governance, enhancing regulatory oversight and improving operational efficiency in Pakistan’s energy sector.
Prime Minister Shehbaz instructed the relevant ministries to establish a committee to examine the World Bank’s recommendations and prepare practical proposals for implementation. The committee will review the suggested reforms and identify measures that can modernize the sector while safeguarding consumer interests.
The prime minister also directed the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) to deploy an advanced digital monitoring platform capable of tracking the movement, storage and distribution of petroleum products in real time. Officials believe the system will increase transparency, reduce opportunities for illegal practices and help prevent artificial fuel shortages caused by hoarding.
According to officials, real-time monitoring will strengthen regulatory enforcement by allowing authorities to closely oversee fuel supply chains. The initiative is expected to make it significantly more difficult for market manipulators to create shortages or generate unlawful profits through price distortions.
The government believes wider digital integration will improve accountability, ensure a more stable supply of petroleum products and boost public confidence in Pakistan’s energy market. Officials also expect the reforms to support broader economic objectives by encouraging fair competition and reducing opportunities for market abuse.
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