Government deploys 24,000 devices across 12,000 pumps as app-based monitoring aims to curb smuggling and hoarding
Pakistan is set to roll out a nationwide Digital Fuel Management System, with authorities completing preparations for its launch as part of efforts to regulate petroleum distribution and prevent illegal activities in the sector.
According to sources in the Ministry of IT, around 24,000 mobile devices have been procured for deployment across 12,000 petrol pumps, enabling real-time monitoring of fuel sales and stock levels through a centralized digital platform.
The system integrates a dedicated fuel management application with the regulatory framework of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), allowing authorities to track imported and locally supplied petroleum products throughout the supply chain.
Officials said the initiative is designed to tackle smuggling, hoarding, and unauthorized sales, while ensuring transparency in fuel distribution. The platform will monitor stock availability, transportation, and sales data in real time.
Under the new framework, petrol pump staff are undergoing training on the system and mobile application, with support from the Ministry of IT, National Information Technology Board (NITB), and OGRA. Volunteers from the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme are also assisting in the التدريب process.
Authorities confirmed that only approved mobile handsets, cleared by NITB and PTA, will be used for the system. These devices have already been distributed to oil marketing companies through OGRA channels.
The government also plans to introduce a digital fuel quota system for private vehicles, which will be enforced through a mobile application developed under the Pakistan Digital Authority. Citizens will be allowed to purchase petrol only within their assigned quota, with no provision for exceeding the limit.
Officials said testing of the application has already been completed, and the system will soon be implemented at petrol pumps nationwide.
Analysts say the move represents a major step toward digitising Pakistan’s energy sector, though its success will depend on effective implementation, public compliance, and system reliability.
The initiative comes as the government seeks to tighten control over fuel distribution amid economic pressures and rising concerns over leakages in the petroleum supply chain.
