Balochistan 'heavy reliant' of Iran-smuggled diesel
A careful estimate suggests that at least five lac litres of diesel is smuggled every single day
QUETTA (Dunya News) – Lacs of litres of smuggled petroleum products from Iran are reportedly consumed on daily basis at ‘mini petrol pumps’ along side roads in 90 percent areas of Balochistan.
Sources have reported that smuggled diesel is sold at Rs 45 per litre in areas near to the border while in others, the price is stagnated at Rs 51 per litre.
Over 35,000 vehicles in areas adjoining the border rely on smuggled oil in Balochistan, according to an estimate. Besides different areas, petroleum products are also smuggled through the sea while thousands of locals earn their livelihood through illegal business.
Motorcycle rickshaws, oil tankers and other vehicles are used to shift smuggled oil to ‘mini petrol pumps’.
A careful estimate suggests that at least five lac litres of diesel is smuggled every single day.
It should be mentioned here that customs authorities had confiscated around 2.5 lac litres diesel last month that was worth at least Rs 24 million.
