The Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) has called on the government to take swift action against the illegal blending of solvent oil into petrol and diesel. In a recent letter to Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, the group warned that this practice harms vehicle engines, erodes trust among drivers, and leads to major losses in government tax revenue.
Fuel dealers raise alarm over adulterated products
The PPDA highlighted that some operators mix solvent oil—a cheaper industrial chemical—with motor spirit (petrol) and high-speed diesel. Solvent oil carries lower taxes than regular fuels, allowing those involved to increase their profits by selling the blended product at standard pump prices.
This issue came up during a recent meeting of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s Central Standing Committee on Petroleum Products and Dealers. The association pointed out that the blending damages engines over time, reduces confidence in fuel quality, and puts honest retailers at a disadvantage.
Beyond consumer impact, the practice results in tax evasion and breaches of petroleum rules, costing the government significant revenue.
PPDA Chairman Abdul Sami Khan stressed the need for joint efforts across refineries, importers, and distributors to stop the blending. A copy of the letter also went to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) to push for stronger oversight.
Calls for stricter checks and penalties
The dealers proposed several steps to address the problem:
- Full investigation into solvent oil production and imports, reviewing refinery records, customs data, sales logs, and supply chains.
- Required records of all buyers and end-users.
- Closer watch on transport and storage of the product.
- Random inspections and lab tests at various points.
- Harsh penalties for anyone caught in adulteration schemes.
Also Read: Punjab Local Govt Seeks Funds for 2,600 Green Bus Shelters
Solvent oil remains legal for approved industrial purposes, such as in paints and related sectors. However, its misuse in transport fuels creates safety concerns for vehicles and financial strain on the state.
No immediate response from the Petroleum Division or OGRA has been reported on the letter. The matter highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining fuel quality and fair market practices in Pakistan.
