The bustling metropolis of Karachi is grappling with a severe fuel shortage as the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) continues its nationwide strike.

The crisis began early Friday morning when petrol stations across Karachi and other parts of Pakistan shuttered their operations at 6 AM, following the PPDA’s call for action.

Despite assurances from the Pakistan State Oil (PSO) on Thursday that fuel supply would remain uninterrupted, the reality on the ground paints a different picture. Residents of Karachi are struggling to find operational petrol pumps, with many stations running dry.

The Oil Tanker Owners Association has distanced itself from the strike, with its President Shams Shahwani confirming that fuel delivery continues to essential services such as power plants, airports, and railways.

This development comes amid ongoing negotiations between the government and the All Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association. Despite attempts at dialogue, reports suggest that an impasse persists, with the dealers’ demands remaining unmet.

The PSO maintains that its supply chain is fully operational and has reiterated its commitment to serving the public.

However, the effectiveness of these measures remains questionable as the fuel crisis deepens in Pakistan’s largest city.

(Inputs from ANI)