Diesel Shortage Strikes Pakistan Days Before Expected Price Hike (Complete Breakdown)
Pakistan is facing a sudden Diesel Shortage Strikes Pakistan just days before the government is expected to announce the next petroleum price update on November 16, 2025. Reports from multiple regions suggest that several oil companies have stopped supplying diesel, leading to panic among consumers, transporters, and businesses that rely heavily on uninterrupted diesel availability.
The situation has sparked serious concerns because diesel is the backbone of Pakistan’s freight transport, agriculture sector, construction industry, and public transport. Any shortage of diesel affects not only drivers but also national food supply chains and essential services.
According to credible sources, the shortage has intensified especially in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where petrol pumps have reportedly displayed “Diesel Not Available” boards for the last 48–72 hours.
This guide explains why the diesel shortage is happening, who is responsible, how it affects consumers, and what changes are coming in petroleum prices from November 16.
Why Is Diesel Shortage Happening in Pakistan?
Multiple sources have confirmed that several private oil marketing companies (OMCs) have halted diesel supplies across different areas. According to the Petroleum Dealers Association, these private companies have not supplied diesel for the last three days, which has directly caused empty fuel pumps and long queues.
Dealers claim that the shortage has been artificially created by oil companies ahead of the expected price increase. By holding their stocks, companies expect to sell diesel at higher prices after November 16, earning bigger profits.
Check Also: Oppo Reno 15c Rumored to Join Series; Massive Reno 15 Pro Leak Uncovers Full Specs
PSO Cannot Meet 100% Demand
Pakistan State Oil (PSO), the government-owned company, continues supplying diesel, but dealers say:
- PSO supply is not enough
- PSO cannot cover the gap created by private OMCs
- Retailers are receiving limited diesel quotas
This combination has led to an alarming fuel availability situation in multiple cities.
Diesel Shortage Pakistan – How It Affects Consumers
The diesel shortage has affected millions across the country. Here are the most visible impacts:
1. Long Queues at Fuel Stations
Motorists, truck drivers, and transporters are standing in long lines waiting for diesel, especially in:
- Islamabad
- Rawalpindi
- Sialkot
- Gujranwala
- Lahore suburbs
- Peshawar and Mardan
2. Public Transport Delays
Metro buses, local buses, vans, and goods transport vehicles are facing operational delays, causing inconvenience for passengers.
3. Higher Transport Charges
As supply declines, the transport sector anticipates:
- Increased freight charges
- Higher fares for passengers
- Delays in goods delivery
4. Agriculture Sector Impact
Farmers using diesel-powered equipment such as:
- Tube wells
- Tractors
- Harvesters
…fear that a prolonged shortage may disrupt crop cycles, especially wheat sowing.
5. Panic Buying
Many consumers and truck owners are filling extra diesel due to fear of extended shortage.
Expected Petroleum Price Change on November 16
Pakistan is preparing for the next petroleum price revision, likely to be announced late November 15 night. According to initial calculations and sources:
Expected Price Hike / Drop
| Product | Expected Change |
|---|---|
| Petrol | ▼ May decrease by Rs. 1.96/litre |
| Diesel | ▲ May increase by Rs. 9.60/litre |
| Kerosene | ▲ Increase of Rs. 8.82/litre |
| Light Diesel Oil (LDO) | ▲ Increase of Rs. 7.15/litre |
This expected increase in diesel prices is believed to be the main reason behind the current artificial shortage created by private companies.
Why Diesel Price Needs to Increase?
Diesel is becoming more expensive worldwide due to:
- Rising global oil prices
- Increased demand in winter season
- Higher import premiums
- Dollar fluctuations
This directly impacts Pakistan’s domestic pricing formula, which OGRA uses to calculate new rates.
Who Will Decide the Final Fuel Prices?
The following steps are involved every 15 days:
1. OGRA Finalizes Summary
OGRA (Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority) will submit its recommendations to the Petroleum Division on November 15.
2. Petroleum Division + Finance Ministry Approval
Both departments review:
- Global price trends
- Exchange rate
- Tax adjustments
- PSO import costs
3. Prime Minister’s Final Approval
The final summary is forwarded to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who approves or rejects the proposed prices.
4. Finance Ministry Announces Prices
Once signed, the Finance Ministry notifies the revised prices, which take effect from midnight.
Ground Reality in Islamabad and Punjab
Reports from Islamabad confirm that:
- Several pumps owned by private oil companies have zero diesel stock
- Only PSO-operated pumps are providing limited diesel
- Police have been deployed in some areas to manage long queues
- Tankers are seen arriving late at night to avoid crowding
In rural Punjab, especially areas dependent on agriculture, diesel shortage has started impacting irrigation and crop transport.
Transporters have warned that if the crisis continues, Pakistan may see:
- Delays in fruit/vegetable supply
- Higher market prices
- Increased delivery costs
What Petroleum Dealers Are Saying
The Petroleum Dealers Association alleges:
“Private OMCs have cut diesel supply to manipulate prices ahead of the fuel price revision.”
They also claim:
- Companies are waiting for the new price revision
- Dealers are receiving only partial supplies
- Diesel availability is at its lowest point in months
Multiple reports from Karachi also suggest that while petrol is available, diesel supply is tight and inconsistent.
What Consumers Should Expect Next
Based on current trends:
Short-Term Situation (Next 2–3 days)
- Diesel shortage may continue until November 16
- Some pumps may run dry completely
- PSO pumps will stay operational with limited stock
After Price Announcement
- Private OMCs are expected to resume normal supplies once new prices are notified
- Diesel availability will improve within 24–48 hours after the announcement
- Transport sector may increase fares after price hike
Government Response Expected
If the shortage worsens, OGRA may:
- Issue show-cause notices to oil companies
- Conduct surprise inspections
- Impose fines on those hoarding diesel
The Petroleum Division is monitoring the situation and is expected to take administrative action if the crisis deepens.
FAQs – Diesel Shortage Pakistan (2025):
1. Why is there a diesel shortage in Pakistan right now?
Several oil companies have halted supply before the expected price hike, causing an artificial shortage.
2. Is PSO supplying diesel normally?
PSO is supplying diesel, but its stock is limited because private companies have reduced supplies.
3. Will diesel prices increase on November 16?
Yes, initial estimates show a possible increase of Rs. 9.60 per litre.
4. When will the fuel crisis end?
Supplies may normalize within 24–48 hours after the new prices are announced.
5. Which cities are most affected?
Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Peshawar, and surrounding areas.
6. How will this affect transport fares?
Transporters may increase fares due to higher diesel prices and limited supply.
7. Who decides the final fuel prices?
OGRA sends a summary to the Petroleum Division, which forwards it to the Prime Minister for approval.
8. Is petrol also in shortage?
Petrol is generally available; the shortage is mainly limited to diesel.
