ISLAMABAD: In a major policy shift aimed at curbing fuel consumption and enhancing transparency, the Pakistani government has announced plans to implement a nationwide digital fuel management system at petrol pumps, coupled with monthly petrol quotas for privately owned vehicles. The move comes as Pakistan grapples with rising global oil prices and seeks to modernize its energy infrastructure.
Under the proposed mechanism, citizens will receive fixed monthly petrol allocations, with purchases beyond prescribed limits prohibited. Officials describe the initiative as a strategic response to both economic pressures and the need for more efficient fuel distribution. “This system will bring unprecedented transparency to fuel consumption while helping regulate national usage,” stated a senior government official involved in the planning.
Technical preparations for the rollout have reached advanced stages. The National Information Technology Board, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, has completed testing of specialized mobile devices and a dedicated application developed by the Pakistan Digital Authority. Each petrol pump will receive modern handsets valued at approximately Rs36,000, with procurement funding arranged by oil marketing companies.
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority has been directed to oversee device distribution to fuel stations after the IT board manages purchases. Technical standards and operational efficiency have been verified, and a formal summary has been submitted to the Cabinet Division for final approval. The system represents Pakistan’s latest effort to digitize critical infrastructure, following similar digital transformation initiatives in other sectors.
While the exact monthly petrol quotas remain unspecified, officials confirmed announcements will follow soon. The initiative aligns with broader regional trends toward energy management reforms in developing economies facing similar challenges. Implementation is expected to begin once cabinet approval is secured, potentially transforming how Pakistan monitors and distributes fuel nationwide.
Source: ARY News