Govt plans to adopt environment friendly fuel, might face resistance from refineries

The government is looking to upgrade fuel used in Pakistan to a more environment friendly Euro-5 standard in a bid to counter air pollution, despite resistance from oil refineries.

According to a report published by a local media outlet, oil refineries will have to upgrade their plants in order to supply the lower emission producing Euro-5 fuel.

Earlier the government had directed Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to import Euro-5 standard fuel. Euro-5 standard petrol will be imported from September 1 while Euro-5 diesel will be imported from January 1.

Out of the 3,500 pumps owned by Pakistan State Oil (PSO) across the country, 56 are already supplying Euro-5 standard fuel which is offered at approximately Rs20 higher than normal fuel.

The Euro-5 fuel does not only produce lower emissions but also improves engine performance.

According to the report, one of the factors causing the seasonal smog in Punjab has been the use of lower standard fuel and the increasing population of vehicles. The report suggested a move towards Euro-5 as a possible solution to the pollution woes of the country.

However, if the government is able to implement its plan regarding the upgradation of fuel, refineries will still need three years to upgrade their production units.