The Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity (MPDF) on Wednesday clarified that the ongoing fuel shortage in the state is not due to black marketing by petrol pumps.
MPDF Convenor Laishram Jogendra said the fuel crisis has been continuing since April due to restricted petroleum allocations by oil companies and disruptions caused by highway blockades, shutdowns, and panic buying in the state.
While speaking to the media in Imphal, Jogendra said the recent economic blockades along the two national highways created panic among the public, leading to a sudden rise in fuel demand.
As most petrol pumps usually keep stock for only a day or two, the available fuel was exhausted within hours, he added.
Jogendra informed that fuel supply from depots was affected on Saturday and Sunday due to transportation issues, a shortage of loading vehicles, and non-operational banking services, forcing several petrol pumps to remain temporarily closed.
While denying allegations of illegal black marketing by retail outlet dealers, the convenor also clarified that all petroleum products are sold strictly at government-approved prices fixed by Oil Marketing Companies.
He also said roadside bottle petrol sellers are mostly independent resellers who buy fuel at normal prices from petrol pumps and later sell it at higher rates after fuel stations close.
He further appealed to the public, media, and authorities to understand the ground realities and cooperate in maintaining calm during the present fuel supply crisis, while urging the government to take steps to control further fuel price hikes and reduce the burden on the public amid rising inflation.
The Hills Journal
K. Salbung, Churachandpur
Manipur-795128
