Aizawl: The Mizoram government has initiated efforts to establish the state’s first oil depot, a move aimed at ensuring a stable fuel supply and reducing dependency on external sources.
Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Minister B Lalchhanzova informed the assembly on Thursday that the depot is planned near Sairang railway station, approximately 21 km from Aizawl.
During the assembly session, Lalchhanzova stated that Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has shortlisted two potential sites for the project, with finalization expected within four months. The government is also pushing for the expansion and upgradation of the existing gas bottling plant at Mualkhang near Sairang, with IOCL set to commence work soon.
Currently, Mizoram lacks an oil depot, leading to frequent fuel shortages when supply chains are disrupted due to road conditions or strikes. Officials highlighted that fuel stations across the state can only store enough fuel for a few days, making the need for a dedicated depot even more critical.
The proposed oil depot will be rail-fed once the broad-gauge railway line between Bairabi and Sairang is completed, offering a more reliable fuel transportation network for the state. The initiative is expected to significantly improve Mizoram’s fuel storage capacity and strengthen its energy security.