In a major move against smuggled fuel and illegal oil supply chains, the government has made the Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG) system mandatory for all petrol pumps across Pakistan.
The decision was announced by the Petroleum Division, aiming to bring transparency, digital monitoring, and accountability to the fuel distribution system.
What Is the ATG System and Why It Matters
The Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG) system digitally records:
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Quantity of petroleum products
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Fuel storage levels
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Sales data from tank to nozzle
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Real-time fuel movement
Under this system, all data will be stored automatically and digitally, allowing authorities to closely monitor the entire fuel supply chain and prevent theft, under-reporting, and illegal fuel trading.
Official Notification Issued
The Explosives Department of the Petroleum Division has issued a formal notification directing all Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to ensure installation of the ATG system at every petrol pump by February 10.
Authorities have made it clear that this deadline is final.
No License Without ATG After Deadline
According to the notification:
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No petrol pump will be issued a storage license after February 10 without the ATG system
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No relaxation or extension will be granted
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Compliance will be checked strictly
This effectively means petrol pumps that fail to install the system may face operational suspension or license issues.
Step Toward Fuel Sector Digitization
Officials stated that the move will lead to complete digitization of the fuel supply chain, helping the government curb:
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Fuel smuggling
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Illegal oil sales
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Tax evasion
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Supply manipulation
The initiative is also expected to improve consumer trust by ensuring accurate fuel measurements.
What Petrol Pump Owners Need to Do
Petrol pump operators have been advised to:
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Coordinate with their respective oil marketing companies
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Complete installation before the deadline
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Ensure system integration with regulatory authorities
Failure to comply could result in serious legal and regulatory consequences.
