Long queues at fuel pumps in Latur; collector issues fresh guidelines on supply

New Delhi/Latur: Long queues were seen at several fuel pumps in Latur on Monday due to a reported shortage of petrol and diesel.

The shortage is being attributed to a halt in fuel supply from wholesale dealers to local pump operators, creating what officials and traders described as an artificial scarcity in the district.

Many pumps displayed boards reading 'Diesel Out of Stock' and 'Petrol Not Available,' while some dispensed fuel in limited quantities.

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According to petrol pump operators, the wholesale fuel depot is located in Solapur, where tankers from Latur district have been waiting in long queues to procure petrol and diesel.

However, tanker drivers are reportedly not being allowed entry into the supplier's premises, delaying the return of fuel-laden vehicles, they alleged.

Several outlets remained completely shut due to depleted reserves. The developments have led to panic buying, officials admitted.

Pump operators said efforts are underway to restore supply at the earliest and ensure normal fuel availability for consumers in the district.

Acting on complaints that some pumps were deliberately shutting operations despite having adequate stock, in-charge District Collector Rahul Kumar Meena issued guidelines and directives to all fuel station operators.

The decision was taken during a review meeting held via video conferencing with petrol pump owners and their representatives in the presence of District Supply Officer Venkatesh Rawlod, an official said.

"As per the new directives, petrol pump operators have been instructed not to stop fuel sales under any circumstances if stock is available. They must not refuse fuel to customers, avoid unnecessary restrictions on sales, and ensure that pumps remain operational during prescribed working hours," he said.

Clear display of fuel prices at prominent locations has been made mandatory, along with daily updates of stock and sales records, which must be made available to inspection on demand, the official added.

Hiding stock or intentionally creating scarcity will be treated as a serious violation, he said, adding that all pumps have been directed to keep CCTV systems operational round the clock and provide footage to authorities whenever required.

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"To ensure strict implementation, special teams have been formed at the tehsil level. These teams will conduct surprise inspections of petrol pumps within their jurisdiction. Each team will be led by the concerned Supply Inspection Officer, assisted by officials from the revenue and supply departments," the official said.

Violations of guidelines will result in action under Petroleum Rules 2002, Essential Commodities Act 1955, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Disaster Management Act 2005, the official said.

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