KARACHI: The government is planning to increase the storage capacity for petroleum, oil and lubricants (POL) at the Keamari installation area to meet growing demand.

The issue was discussed in a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Ports and Shipping Mir Hasil Khan Bizenjo on Thursday.

Mr Bizenjo directed the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) to identify land needed for extending the storage capacity of POL products.

He also directed the oil-marketing companies to bring their efficiency on a par with international standards to help the country save foreign exchange.

The national economy was facing heavy losses due to inefficiencies in the crude oil and oil products discharge, storage or handling, he said.

The meeting, held at the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) building, was attended by officials of the Ministry of Defence, Pakistan Navy, oil marketing companies and refineries.

Published in Dawn, April 15th, 2017