New Delhi, June 12: The Centre has barred institutional, industrial and commercial consumers from purchasing Motor Spirit (petrol) and High-Speed Diesel (HSD) from retail fuel stations, directing them to meet their requirements through dedicated consumer pumps.
The move comes amid concerns over potential fuel shortages caused by disruptions in global supply chains due to the ongoing crisis in West Asia. The government said the restrictions are aimed at preventing hoarding and ensuring uninterrupted fuel availability for the general public.
In a notification, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said the order will remain in force for up to 90 days. It also directed retail outlets to limit the sale of High-Speed Diesel to 200 litres per customer per day to curb bulk purchases.
The government noted that petrol and diesel are essential commodities critical for transportation, agricultural operations, emergency services and national security. It said uninterrupted supply at fair prices must be maintained.
According to the Ministry, several states had raised concerns over bulk procurement practices that were causing inconvenience to retail consumers and farmers. The restrictions, it said, are a temporary measure to curb such practices during the prevailing crisis.
Oil Marketing Companies and retail outlet dealers have been instructed to strictly implement the order and ensure compliance. (Agencies)
