Shahzad Iqbal Designated OGRA Vice-Chairman

The Government of Pakistan has designated Shahzad Iqbal, currently serving as Member (Gas), as Vice-Chairman of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), effective February 23, 2026, in a development carrying notable implications for Pakistan’s energy regulatory framework.

The appointment was formally notified by the Cabinet Division under Section 3(13) of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority Ordinance, 2002 (No. XVII of 2002), and is scheduled for publication in the forthcoming issue of the Gazette of Pakistan.

Shahzad Iqbal, who has been overseeing gas sector regulation as Member (Gas), will assume the additional responsibilities of Vice-Chairman at a critical juncture, as OGRA addresses key regulatory matters including gas tariff rationalisation, supply management, and supervision of transmission and distribution entities.

In his capacity as Member (Gas), he has played an integral role in tariff determinations, regulatory compliance oversight, and stakeholder coordination across upstream and downstream segments of the natural gas value chain. His elevation to Vice-Chairman strengthens his role within OGRA’s decision-making hierarchy.

The notification clarifies that upon the appointment of a Chairman of OGRA, he shall cease to hold the office of Vice-Chairman in accordance with the statutory composition prescribed under the governing ordinance.

Copies of the notification have been circulated to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Establishment Division, and the Petroleum Division, among other relevant authorities.

As Pakistan’s principal oil and gas regulator, OGRA is responsible for determining consumer gas tariffs, regulating LNG operations, supervising oil marketing companies, and ensuring compliance throughout the national petroleum supply chain. The internal designation of a Vice-Chairman is anticipated to maintain institutional continuity and regulatory stability.