KARACHI: The implementation of the Sindh Infrastructure Development Cess (SIDC) by the Sindh government has caused delays in the clearance of petroleum products at Karachi Port, raising concerns about a possible nationwide fuel shortage.
According to a TV report, the Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC) has sent an urgent letter to the Chief Minister, warning that oil tankers waiting at the ports require immediate customs clearance.
The letter stated that petroleum cargos currently being discharged and those anchored at the berths must be cleared promptly to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply across the country.
The OCAC said that Pakistan State Oil’s (PSO) vessels, MT Islam 2 and MT Hanifa, are anchored at berths awaiting customs clearance, while oil stocks at Keamari are running low.
It urged authorities to clear the two vessels at Karachi Port Trust (KPT) immediately to maintain the supply chain of petroleum products nationwide.
ALSO READ
CDWP approves ML-1 railway projects with ADB, AIIB support
The council further warned that if clearance is not granted for Wafi Energy’s petroleum cargo and PARCO’s crude oil cargo scheduled for October 21, the problem will worsen. It stated that the new cess has created severe financial and operational risks for the downstream petroleum sector.
The OCAC added that the 1.8 percent cess could increase petroleum product costs by over Rs3 per litre, ultimately burdening consumers, as petroleum prices are regulated.
The council cautioned that with the ongoing agricultural season, any disruption in fuel supply could bring the distribution network to a standstill nationwide. It said that even after the issue is resolved, it could take up to two weeks to restore normal supplies. The OCAC has urged the government to take immediate notice of the situation.
