Refineries and OMCs advised to stockpile fuel amid escalating regional tensions

Government of Pakistan has directed all refineries and oil marketing companies (OMCs) to maintain sufficient stocks of diesel and jet fuel to address any potential emergencies amidst the escalating situation in the region.

The Ministry of Energy has issued a letter to all relevant authorities, including refineries, oil marketing companies, and the Oil Companies Advisory Council, emphasizing the need for adequate stocks. The letter, addressed to Pakistan State Oil, PARCO, Pakistan Refinery, National Refinery, Cynergico, and the Oil Companies Advisory Council, highlighted the critical security circumstances in the region.

It instructed all refineries to ramp up the production of high-speed diesel (HSD) and JP-8 jet fuel to fulfill the requirements of the defense forces.

OMCs were also urged to ensure the timely import of petroleum products to prevent shortages. Additionally, the letter requested enhanced security measures for key installations in line with the prevailing standard operating procedures (SOPs).

The armed forces predominantly use diesel, while the air force consumes the majority of jet fuel.

Zahid Mir, Managing Director of Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL), assured Nukta that the refinery holds ample petroleum product stocks to meet the needs of the armed forces.

He further stated that if demand increases, the refinery is prepared to scale up the production of jet fuel and HSD.

Industry data reveals that the country currently has approximately 500,000 metric tons of motor gasoline, sufficient for 22 days; 610,000 metric tons of diesel, sufficient for 25 days; and 400,000 metric tons of furnace oil, sufficient for 115 days.