The Punjab government has launched a simplified and faster system for establishing petrol pumps, significantly easing the process for entrepreneurs and investors.

Previously, setting up a petrol pump required approvals from numerous departments such as TEPA, LDA, Civil Defense, Traffic Police, Assistant Commissioner, Rescue 1122, Local Government, and the Environment Department. The approval process could take six months to a year.

Now, under the newly introduced system, applicants can apply for a single centralized No Objection Certificate (NOC) through the LDA NOC Portal, eliminating the need to visit multiple offices. The Deputy Commissioner is obligated to issue a decision—approval or rejection—within 15 days. If rejected, the decision must include a clear explanation.

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The number of required documents has also been reduced from sixteen to just six, streamlining the paperwork significantly. However, the basic land requirements remain unchanged: a minimum of two kanals with an 80-foot frontage.

These reforms were spearheaded by the Punjab Industries Department and officially approved in a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The move is expected to reduce costs, save time, and encourage more private investment in the fuel retail sector.