Panic ensued in petroleum pumps on Friday night following the threat by transporters' union to withhold petrol, diesel and LPG from the state. This comes after days of unrest between Meghalaya and Assam over the movement of vehicles carrying petroleum products.
What Triggered The Crisis
The violence erupted after Assam taxi drivers block the way of Meghalaya-bound vehicles due to the vandalism of over 30 tourist vehicles. In response, Meghalaya placed a blockade leading to the clashes between taxi drivers of both the states.
Against this backdrop, the North-East Petroleum Mazdoor Union (NEPMZ) said on Friday that it would suspend transportation of petroleum products from Assam to Meghalaya, citing safety concerns for Assam-registered vehicles operating in the state, NDTV reported.
The union said it had already halted loading and unloading operations in Meghalaya amid reports of unrest in several areas.
Why Fuel Pumps Are Running Dry
News of the potential halt sparked panic buying at petrol stations across Shillong on Friday night, with several outlets reportedly running out of fuel.
NEPMZ general secretary Ramen Deka said the decision was rooted in safety concerns given the flammable nature of petroleum products.
He said that the union's members would withhold carrying petroleum products to Meghalaya until action was taken by the state government to ensure protection of Assam-registered vehicles, including those of tourists, against similar violence.
Government Response And Restrictions
Amid the unrest, district administrations across parts of Meghalaya have banned the sale and distribution of petrol and diesel in loose quantities. Officials cited public safety concerns linked to the ongoing agitation by the Khasi Students' Union (KSU).
Under these orders, the sale of fuel in unauthorised containers such as jerry cans and bottles has been prohibited under the Petroleum Act, 1934, with authorities warning that unregulated sale and hoarding could pose fire hazards and disrupt public order.
ALSO READ: Indian Oil Secures Long-Term Petrol, Diesel, Jet Fuel Supply Deal With Mauritius
Violators will face action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with other applicable provisions.
The restrictions, issued ex parte given the urgency of the situation, will remain in force until further orders. However, diesel supply to mobile towers and road construction firms will continue under existing permissions.
Security On The Ground
Police and security personnel have stepped up deployment across Shillong, monitoring sensitive areas closely as authorities from both states work to defuse tensions and restore normalcy.
Essential Business Intelligence, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice, Daily Fuel, Gold and Silver Prices and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.
