The main distillation unit of Attock Refinery has been shut down due to a severe disruption in crude oil supply caused by traffic restrictions on heavy vehicles in Rawalpindi. The situation has raised concerns over a potential fuel supply crunch, including a possible shortage of jet fuel at major airports.
According to refinery officials, the movement of oil tankers carrying crude supplies has been severely affected for the past several days due to a 24-hour ban on heavy traffic in the Rawalpindi and Attock regions. As a result, crude oil has not been able to reach the refinery, forcing the shutdown of its main processing unit.
Sources within the refinery confirmed that the shortage of crude oil has persisted for around four days, leading to operational difficulties and ultimately the suspension of the main distillation unit. They warned that if the traffic restrictions are not lifted immediately, the refinery itself could face a complete shutdown.
The Chief Executive Officer of Attock Refinery, Adil Khattak, stated that both crude oil supply and product transportation have been significantly affected by the restrictions. He emphasized that urgent measures are needed to restore normal movement of oil tankers and prevent a broader energy crisis.
“We have already informed the Petroleum Division and OGRA about the situation,” he said, adding that failure to take immediate action could escalate into a serious fuel shortage across the country.
Officials have also warned that continued disruption in refinery operations could impact jet fuel availability at Islamabad and Peshawar airports, potentially affecting flight operations if the situation persists.
The issue highlights the critical importance of logistics and transport routes in maintaining uninterrupted energy supply chains. Even temporary restrictions on heavy vehicles can have far-reaching consequences for refineries, fuel distribution networks, and aviation sectors.
Energy experts note that the situation underscores the need for better coordination between local administration and the energy sector to ensure that essential supplies like crude oil are not disrupted due to traffic management policies.
As the situation develops, authorities are expected to review the restrictions and consider emergency measures to restore supply chains and prevent a nationwide fuel crisis.
