Shehbaz Sharif urged digital transformation of Pakistan’s fuel sector, seeking transparent monitoring of the entire supply chain from imports to consumers
By Pervaiz Mughal
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday directed authorities to accelerate reforms in the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and strengthen its institutional capacity through modern technology, transparency and professional expertise.
Chairing a high-level meeting on OGRA reforms in Islamabad, the prime minister said the government’s reform agenda must be implemented across all institutions in a consistent manner. He called for the development of a strict monitoring mechanism for fuel transportation across the country, similar to the modern tracking system introduced by the Federal Board of Revenue.
Shehbaz Sharif said digital technology should be used to monitor the entire fuel supply chain, from ports and refineries to petrol stations. He stressed that effective oversight was necessary to prevent shortages, illegal profiteering and exploitation of consumers.
The prime minister directed that experts with strong professional reputations from the private sector should be inducted into OGRA to improve its performance. He said appointments within the regulatory body should be made through a transparent and merit-based process, with specialists placed according to sectoral requirements.
He added that the government would provide all possible support for OGRA’s restructuring and would protect public money from misuse. He also called for stronger coordination between regulatory institutions and their respective ministries.
During the meeting, OGRA Chairman briefed the participants about the authority’s performance, challenges and ongoing reform program. The meeting was informed that OGRA had expanded digital monitoring of the oil supply chain through systems including the National Monitoring Dashboard, Tanker Track and Trace System, Depot-Tank Telemetry, Rahguzar Mobile App, Digital Sales Entry System and Central Monitoring Cell.
Officials said data-based monitoring in July had helped identify cases of hoarding, unnecessary supply disruptions and other violations. Legal action, including notices and explanations from companies involved, had been initiated.
The prime minister appreciated OGRA’s reform plan, which included digitalization, restructuring of enforcement mechanisms, improved licensing procedures, stronger legal management and financial reforms. He directed ministries and relevant institutions to complete required legal and administrative measures on a priority basis.
Shehbaz Sharif said uninterrupted fuel supply and fair pricing remained among the government’s key priorities. He warned that negligence, corruption and practices harming consumers would not be tolerated. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, along with federal ministers and senior officials, attended the meeting.
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