SHC Stops KMC From Cracking Down on Petrol Pumps

The Sindh High Court has barred the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation from taking forceful action against petrol pumps in the city, delivering relief to the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association.

Constitutional Bench No. 2 of the SHC issued the stay order on Monday during hearings on petitions submitted by Madina Filling Station, Makkah Mobile Service, and Naseer Gasoline Service. The court upheld the association’s argument that KMC does not have the legal power to carry out raids or forcibly close fuel stations.

PPDA Chairman Malik Khuda Bakhsh welcomed the ruling, calling it confirmation of the dealers’ stance. He said KMC must act within its legal limits and cannot take independent action against petrol pumps.

In light of the court’s decision, PPDA has asked pump owners to resume operations as usual. Dealers have also been told to show the court order to any KMC officials who visit their stations.

PPDA Vice Chairman Tariq Hasan termed the verdict a significant win for the association, stating it clearly defined KMC’s jurisdictional boundaries.

The association said it hopes the issue will now be settled under the law, allowing citizens uninterrupted access to fuel while protecting dealers from harassment.