ISLAMABAD: Attock Refinery Limited (ARL) has temporarily shut down its main crude distillation unit (HBU-I) with a capacity of 32,400 barrels per stream day (BPSD), citing severe disruptions in the fuel supply chain due to security-related restrictions in Islamabad.
In a notice submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the refinery stated that the suspension of oil tank lorry movement—triggered by heightened security measures ahead of the arrival of foreign delegates—had significantly impacted both crude oil receipts and product dispatch operations.
The company noted that limitations on product transportation led to a substantial buildup of stocks of Motor Spirit (MS) and High-Speed Diesel (HSD), while incoming crude supplies also declined sharply due to road closures.
“These constraints have directly affected refinery operations, necessitating the shutdown of the main unit,” the notice said.
Established in 1978 and later converted into a public limited company, Attock Refinery is a key player in Pakistan’s downstream petroleum sector. It operates as a subsidiary of Attock Oil Company Limited, with its ultimate parent being Coral Holding Limited.
The development highlights the vulnerability of Pakistan’s fuel supply chain to logistical disruptions, particularly during periods of heightened security and restricted transportation movement.
