PETROL prices are already skyrocketing, and the alleged use of faulty measuring systems by petrol pump operators has made fuel even more expensive for the public. In these challenging times where inflation is unprecedented, people are already under severe financial pressure, and such practices are adding to their hardship. It has been observed that vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles and rickshaws, are often given less fuel than the actual quantity paid for. For example, if a car’s fuel tank capacity is 30 litres, even after filling more than 35 litres, it does not appear completely full.

Control rooms at petrol pumps are said to be equipped with hidden devices connected to fuel-dispensing machines. By simply pressing a button, the quantity of petrol dispensed can be reduced, like they start delivering, say, 0.95 litre instead of a full litre. When an inspection officer arrives, the person in the control room switches off the device, and the machines begin dispensing the correct quantity. The authorities concerned must ensure strict inspection of petrol pump measure-ments and should investigate the matter.

Inayat Khan
Sahiwal

Published in Dawn, May 22nd, 2026