Northeast Desk, 27th August: In a decisive move to address the escalating fuel crisis in Manipur, the state government has announced the deployment of police personnel at petrol stations across the region. This initiative, spearheaded by L. Susindro, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution, aims to mitigate the worsening situation and curb extortion attempts at fuel outlets.
Speaking at a press conference, Minister Susindro revealed that several petrol stations had been forced to shut down due to significant financial losses. These losses stemmed from incidents where customers refueled their vehicles and left without paying. To prevent further disruptions, the government has mandated the presence of police officers and staff from the Food and Public Distribution Department at petrol pumps to ensure smooth and regulated operations.
Susindro issued a stern warning to fuel retailers, stating that legal action would be taken against those who refuse to sell fuel despite having sufficient stock. “We have enough fuel in the state,” he emphasized. “Legal action will be initiated against petrol pump operators who refuse to sell fuel despite having stock.”
The fuel crisis in Manipur has been further exacerbated by frequent landslides along the national highways, disrupting the transportation of essential goods, including LPG cylinders, to the state. This disruption has significantly contributed to the severe fuel shortage currently gripping the Imphal Valley.
As the state government takes these measures, it is hoped that the deployment of security personnel at petrol pumps will restore order and ensure the equitable distribution of fuel across Manipur.
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