LAHORE: In a formal letter addressed to Mr. Jameel Ahmad, the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Muhammad Nadeem Mirza, President of TIP SUPER COMMUNITY, has called for urgent action to ensure that credit and debit card payments are accepted without interruption at petrol pumps across Pakistan. The letter highlights discriminatory practices by some petrol pumps, especially during periods of changing fuel prices, which inconvenience consumers who prefer digital payment methods.
Mirza commended the SBP for its resilience and strategic acumen in navigating Pakistan’s challenging economic terrain, noting that the institution’s proactive policies have laid the foundations for a brighter economic future. However, he raised concerns about the payment practices at petrol pumps that are hindering the adoption of digital payments.
Discriminatory Practices at Petrol Pumps
The letter pointed out that a significant number of petrol pumps do not accept credit or debit card payments for fuel purchases. Even more concerning is the selective halting of debit card transactions while permitting credit card payments, and vice versa, at some petrol pumps. This discriminatory practice has been causing significant inconvenience to consumers, undermining their ability to use digital payment methods for essential transactions.
Suspension of Card Transactions during Fuel Price Changes
A deeply concerning pattern emerged in the lead-up to government announcements regarding changes in petroleum product prices. Many petrol pumps suspend card transactions for a day or two, citing a dubious “out of order” status on their card machines. This practice appears to be a deliberate tactic to encourage cash payments and maximize revenue at the expense of consumers who prefer digital payment methods.
Call for Action
To address these issues, Mirza made three key recommendations:
1. General Notification: The State Bank of Pakistan, in collaboration with the Oil & Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), should issue a general notification to all Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) stating that all petrol pumps must accept credit and debit card payments 24/7 without interruption.
2. Enforcement Measures: Petrol pumps found intentionally pausing card transactions, especially during price change announcements, should face stringent enforcement measures. Warnings, fines, and the ultimate cancellation of their licenses by OGRA should be considered as appropriate penalties for such practices.
3. Consumer Helpline: SBP and OGRA should jointly establish a toll-free helpline that consumers can use to report instances of petrol pumps not accepting card payments or engaging in suspicious activities. This helpline number should be prominently displayed at every petrol pump, ensuring easy access for consumers to voice their concerns.
The Road to Convenience and Transparency
By taking these measures, SBP and OGRA can collaboratively work towards ensuring a fair and transparent payment system at petrol pumps. This will not only protect consumer rights but also align with Pakistan’s evolving financial landscape, where digital payments play an increasingly vital role.
Mirza expressed confidence that the intervention of the State Bank of Pakistan in this matter will lead to significant improvements in the petroleum retail sector, bringing much-needed relief and convenience to the people who rely on these services daily.
Response Awaited
The ball is now in the court of the State Bank of Pakistan, and consumers across Pakistan are eagerly awaiting a positive response and swift action to rectify these issues that have long plagued their experience at petrol pumps.
