SALIENT FEATURES
|
Size of Stamp |
81 x 40.5 mm |
|
Size of Print |
81 x 40.5 mm |
|
Number of stamps in a Sheet |
5 Stamps |
|
Perforations |
13 C |
|
Denomination: |
Rs. 30/- |
|
Colors |
CMYK |
|
Printing Technology |
Lithography Offset |
|
Paper |
100 GSM Water Mark Gummed Paper |
|
Gum |
PVA |
|
Quantity of Stamp |
0.5 Million (50 thousand) |
|
Design |
Abu Obaidah Ayyaz & Hasnain Mahmud |
|
Printer |
Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, Karachi |
The year 2025 marked the 25th anniversary
of the commissioning of Pak-Arab Refinery Limited's (PARCO) Mid-Country
Refinery (MCR) - a milestone in Pakistan's journey towards energy self-reliance
and industrial modernization.
The Foundation of Mid-Country Refinery:- In the early 1990s,
Pakistan faced growing energy demand, a widening gap between domestic refining
capacity and consumption, and heavy dependence on imported refined petroleum
products. Recognizing the strategic necessity of expanding local refining
Infrastructure, PARCO a joint venture between the Government of Pakistan and
the Emirate of Abu Dhabi undertook the visionary project of establishing a
state-of-the-art refinery at Mahmoodkot, District Muzaffargarh.
Commissioned in 2000, the
Mid-Country Refinery (MCR) was designed with an initial capacity of 100,000
barrels per day (bpd), making it the largest and most modern refinery in the
country at the time. Its location was strategically selected at the crossroads
of Pakistan's north-south energy corridors, connecting PARCO's White Oil
Pipeline System (WOP) and ensuring efficient supply of refined petroleum
products to major consumption centers.
Technological Milestones and Upgradation:- Over its 25-year
journey, MCR has evolved from being a national refining asset to a benchmark of
operational excellence in South Asia. The refinery's commitment to
modernization was reaffirmed in 2020, when its refining capacity was enhanced
to 120,000 bpd, alongside the upgrade of fuel specifications to meet
international environmental standards.
A defining feature of MCR's
operations has been its focus on cleaner fuels and sustainable refining. It was
the first refinery in Pakistan to install a Diesel Hydro Desulphurization
(DHDS) Plant a facility with a maximum capacity of 26,000 bpd, enabling
production of Euro III compliant, low-sulphur diesel. This milestone not only
aligned Pakistan's fuel standards with global environmental benchmarks but also
contributed to cleaner air and reduced vehicular emissions across the country.
In addition to producing
high-quality Diesel, Petrol, Jet Fuel, LPG, Kerosene, Furnace Oil, Sulphur, and
Asphalt, the refinery houses an Asphalt Air Blowing Unit (AABU) that
manufactures road and industrial grade Asphalt meeting international
specifications. The AABU's output has supported national infrastructure
development, from highways to Industrial zones, embodying MCR's role in
"fueling progress" both literally and figuratively.
Economic and Strategic Significance:- MCR's contribution to
Pakistan's economy and energy security has been profound. As a backbone of the
country's refining infrastructure, it plays a vital role in reducing dependence
on imported refined fuels by processing mainly light and medium crude oils
sourced through both domestic and international channels. The refinery's output
caters to a substantial share. of the national fuel demand, supplying energy to
power industries, transportation networks, and households across the nation.
Moreover, MCR's integration with
PARCO's pipeline and storage network has brought unprecedented efficiency and
safety to the national oil supply chain. Its operations have reduced road
transport of petroleum products, lowering logistics costs and mitigating
environmental and safety risks associated with conventional fuel transportation.
The refinery has also been a
catalyst for regional development in southern Punjab, dts establishment brought
modern infrastructure. Employment opportunities & community development
programs to Mahmoodkot and adjoining areas-transforming the region into a hub
of industrial activity and contributing to Pakistan's socioeconomic progress.
Conclusion:- As Pakistan stands at the threshold of new energy
challenges and opportunities, the 25th anniversary of the Mid-Country Refinery
is a moment of pride and reflection. From its commissioning in 2000 to its
ongoing modernization, MCR has embodied the nation's quest for self-reliance,
innovation, and excellence in the energy sector.
On the eve of 25 Years of PARCO
Mid-Country Refinery, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of
Rs.30/- each denomination on January 28th, 2026.