According to a reliable source, a considerable quantity of cheap Iranian petrol is being acquired by petrol pump owners, who then sell it with a significant profit margin of Rs 6 per liter. However, these owners are now demanding an additional increase of Rs 5 per liter, threatening to go on strike starting from July 22, 2023.
It is essential to understand the context surrounding this issue. Recent reports by Reuters indicate a rise in the smuggling of Iranian fuel into Pakistan, with the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) stating that approximately 35% of fuel sold in South Asian countries is illegally smuggled. This illegal trade is causing further damage to an already struggling industry, leading to reduced sales and affecting the livelihoods of many individuals.
Saudi Arabia starts receiving Umrah performers
Iraq expels Swedish ambassador over planned Quran burning
Surprisingly, in June 2023, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo legalized the sale of Iranian petrol, not only in Quetta but also in neighboring areas. The rationale provided was that this sale provides income for numerous families. However, it is important to question the wisdom of legalizing a product that is smuggled into the country, thereby promoting illegal activity. This move sets a dangerous precedent that could potentially encourage other illegal activities.
The demand for Iranian petrol is high due to its lower cost, with consumers saving approximately Rs 53 per liter compared to other options. This significant price difference has only fueled the demand for smuggled petrol, contributing to the problem at hand.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Syrian Ambassador discuss bilateral ties
Int’l organizations rank Pakistan as one of the least racial global countries
Now, how should the government deal with these blackmailers? It is evident that they are exploiting the situation to their advantage, causing harm to the common man and potentially affecting the entire economy. The government must take effective steps to set an example and curb this behavior.
A viable course of action could be to cancel the licenses of those involved in the illegal trade and re-issue licenses to responsible and law-abiding individuals. By doing so, the government will demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding the interests of the public and the overall economy. Continuously yielding to blackmail will only perpetuate this problem and embolden those who seek to profit at the expense of others.
Japan Keen To Make Investments Worth 5 Trillion Yen In India
Provincial Government Gives Rs.196.6 Crore To 78,641 Students For Buying Laptops
In conclusion, we must prioritize the welfare of the common man over the greed of a few individuals. The increase in fuel prices will have a negative ripple effect on every consumer and industrial sector. Hence, it is essential to address this issue promptly and decisively.
Let us hope that through proper governance and just measures, we can put an end to these harmful practices and create a fair and transparent system for everyone.
Investigations Underway: Indian Foreign Ministry On Seema Haider
Madhya Pradesh To Introduce More MBBS Textbooks In Hindi
Govt announces public holidays on 9th, 10th of Muharram
Nawab of Junagarh Muhammad Jahangir Khanji passes away
The writer is a lawyer, academic and political analyst. She has authored a book titled ‘A Comparative Analysis of Media & Media Laws in Pakistan.’ She can be contacted at: yasmeenali62@gmail.com and tweets at @yasmeen_9
Stay tuned to Baaghi TV for more. Download our app for the latest news, updates & interesting content!
I like the suggested course of not yielding to the blackmailers👍