Israel-Iran conflict triggers fuel shortage in Balochistan

Karachi

The ongoing Israel-Iran conflict has caused a major fuel crisis in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, which borders Iran and Afghanistan. Many petrol stations, mostly reliant on smuggled Iranian fuel, began shutting down on Sunday, triggering panic among residents. Long queues formed, but drivers returned home disappointed as fuel outlets closed due to the disruption in Iranian supply.

Deputy Commissioners later announced that pedestrian and trade movement, including fuel delivery, had been suspended indefinitely for security reasons. Key border crossings in Panjgur and Gwadar districts, along with the Gabd-Kalato 250 border point, were sealed.

The crisis worsened as the federal government hiked petrol and diesel prices by Rs 4.80 and Rs 7.95 per litre, respectively. Iranian fuel, cheaper than domestic options, remains widely used in Balochistan despite official bans. Areas like Turbat, Gwadar, Chagai, and Panjgur are now also experiencing food shortages due to the disrupted border trade.

Around 60–70% of petrol stations in the region have closed due to the fuel supply halt. However, Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind denied any province-wide fuel shortage. He claimed most stations in Quetta remained open and blamed panic on those profiting from illegal fuel sales. He said these individuals were spreading false rumors to pressure authorities into lifting the ban on Iranian smuggled fuel.