Petrol pump owners are seeking a massive government payout to offset the impact of rising fuel costs triggered by the ongoing war-driven global oil price surge, with demands reaching Rs. 82.5 billion in subsidies.

Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, chaired by Senator Rana Mahmood ul Hassan, reviewed mounting financial claims and sectoral pressures linked to fuel price volatility and subsidy adjustments.

Oil marketing companies (OMCs) informed the committee that they are seeking Rs. 82.5 billion from the government, arguing that the recent conflict in the Middle East has significantly increased global fuel costs and disrupted pricing stability.

During the briefing, OGRA Chairman Barrister Nabeel Awan outlined payments already made under the government’s fuel price adjustment mechanism. He said that on March 14, the government decided to absorb international fuel price increases to shield domestic consumers.

He noted that payments were released over three consecutive weeks, including Rs. 17–18 billion in the first week, Rs. 15 billion in the second, and Rs. 18 billion in the third. Around 40% of total dues have already been paid, while substantial liabilities remain outstanding.

Officials further stated that the government still needs to clear an additional Rs. 50–55 billion owed to oil marketing companies.

However, concerns were raised during the meeting regarding alleged irregular claims. It was reported that some companies reportedly sought government payments even in cases where no fuel stock or sales activity was present during the conflict period. Committee members called for strict scrutiny and action against any fraudulent claims.

Separately, Senator Aimal Wali Khan highlighted gas shortages in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, prompting the committee to direct OGRA to submit a detailed report on gas load-shedding within three days.

He also raised concerns over salary disparities across government departments, pointing out differences in pay structures between lower-grade staff and senior officials.

The committee has instructed authorities to compile complete salary data from all government departments for further examination.