Govt, oil tanker association agree to form committee to address issues within two weeks

The Pakistani federal government and the Oil Tankers Contractors Association (OTCA) have reached an agreement to establish a joint committee aimed at addressing the concerns of oil tanker owners. The decision, announced Monday, sets a two-week deadline for resolving the issues, signaling a commitment to dialogue and cooperation.

Talks between the government and the OTCA were described as successful, with both parties agreeing to work collaboratively. The newly formed committee will be headed by the special secretary for petroleum and is tasked with examining the specific grievances raised by the association. It is expected to present its recommendations within one week.

The committee's composition includes key figures from the Petroleum Division, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra), the OTCA, and the Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC). This diverse representation aims to ensure all relevant perspectives are considered.

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The government’s foremost priority is to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies and facilitate the public.

During the discussions, the OTCA presented several critical demands. These include a reduction in the White Oil Pipeline quota, the implementation of a transparent mechanism for awarding freight contracts by oil marketing companies (OMCs), adjusting the freight formula to align with the Consumer Price Index (CPI), and the immediate cessation of commercial loading activities.

Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik has directed Ogra to work closely with stakeholders to address the genuine concerns of oil tanker contractors. He also urged OMCs to provide their written policies on freight contract awards to identify and rectify any discriminatory practices. The minister emphasized the government's priority of ensuring uninterrupted fuel supplies and facilitating the public, urging all stakeholders to cooperate in the national interest, especially during challenging times.

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All stakeholders must work together in the national interest, particularly during challenging times.