FIA Probes Petrol Pumps Operating on NHA Highway Land

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched an inquiry into the alleged unauthorised use of government land within the National Highway Authority’s (NHA) right-of-way for petrol pumps, filling stations and other commercial activities, amid concerns over potential losses to the national exchequer.

According to a notice issued by the FIA’s Anti-Corruption Circle in Islamabad, the investigation covers public land along Grand Trunk Road (N-5) and other national highways and roads. Investigators are examining allegations that private individuals and businesses are using these areas for commercial purposes.

The inquiry will assess the legal status of the occupied land, the validity of leases and permissions granted by relevant authorities, and whether the government is receiving the revenue due from the use of public property.

As part of the investigation, the FIA has summoned a representative of a filling station to appear before an investigating officer and record a statement under Section 160 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

The notice, dated October 20, 2026, directs the recipient to appear on October 27 at the FIA Anti-Corruption Circle in Islamabad.

FIA Seeks Lease Agreements and Approvals

The agency has instructed the representative to submit the lease agreement, no-objection certificates from relevant authorities, approvals issued by the district administration, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) or the NHA, and the licence granted by the relevant oil marketing company.

Investigators have also requested all other records concerning the establishment of petrol pumps and filling stations.

The documents will help establish the legal basis for the use of the land, determine whether the required permissions were obtained and assess compliance with applicable regulations.

According to the notice, the inquiry was registered on October 11, 2026, under reference number ENQ-ACC-ICT-187/26. The notice was issued by a sub-inspector of the FIA’s Anti-Corruption Circle in Islamabad.

Potential Implications for Highway Businesses

The investigation could affect commercial establishments operating along national highways if evidence emerges of unauthorised occupation, irregular leasing arrangements or breaches of relevant rules.

However, the notice does not establish wrongdoing by any particular individual or business. The allegations remain under investigation, and the findings will depend on the evidence collected by the agency.

The FIA has warned that failure to comply with the summons may be treated as a failure to present a response or defence during the inquiry. The notice also cites Section 174 of the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860, which concerns non-attendance in response to a lawful summons or order.

The probe comes amid wider concerns about safeguarding public land, regulating commercial activities along national highways and ensuring that the government receives revenue owed from the use of its property.

The outcome will depend on the documentary evidence, the validity of the relevant leases and permissions, and the conclusions reached by investigators.