QUETTA – The illegal sale of Iranian petrol has once again resumed openly across Quetta, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of the Balochistan government’s ban and the performance of law enforcement agencies.
Despite a strict prohibition announced by the provincial government on the purchase and sale of smuggled Iranian fuel, roadside stalls in several areas of Quetta — including Sariab, Spiny Road, Killi Shabo, Kuchlak, Satellite Town, and Qambrani Road — are once again selling Iranian petrol at Rs. 215 per liter. This is significantly cheaper than the official rate of Rs. 265 per liter at licensed fuel stations.
Just months ago, Balochistan authorities had claimed to have completely shut down the illegal trade of Iranian fuel. However, the ground reality paints a different picture, as smuggled fuel has reappeared across the city with little to no official resistance.
Speaking to V News, a local resident, Hamza Ahmed, said the rising cost of living has forced many to rely on the cheaper Iranian petrol. “If the government cannot provide fuel at affordable prices, it should at least not stop what is already available,” he said.
Meanwhile, Din Muhammad, who is involved in the Iranian fuel trade, explained that although the fuel remained available in other parts of Balochistan, sales in Quetta had come to a halt due to stricter enforcement. “But over the past week, Iranian fuel has returned to the city and is now available in many areas again,” he noted.
So far, there has been no official response from the provincial or district authorities regarding the resurgence of illegal fuel sales. No raids or enforcement actions have been reported either.
According to economic experts, the smuggling of Iranian fuel not only harms Pakistan’s formal economy but also poses serious national security risks. The government has long maintained that profits from the illegal fuel trade often support terrorist and criminal groups operating in the region.
