Lively nights on the anvil
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 23 2012:
In what could be construed as a sign of relative normalcy limping back in the State, particularly within the confines of Imphal city, the Government is keen to keep the market places buzzing with trade activities and ensure opening of fuel outlets even after dusk.
According to an informed source, a joint meeting of Government representatives, petrol pump owners and Divisional Office officials of Indian Oil Corporation was held this afternoon.
Terming the meeting as a preliminary round of discussion, the source said Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Minister M Oken led the Government delegation at the meeting which deliberated at length on the possibility of keeping the fuel (petrol/diesel) retail outlets open till around 9 pm.
However, the matter had to be deferred for finalisation at another meeting after fuel retailers pointed out erratic power supply as one of the factors for their hesitancy to operate at night.
The retailers reportedly explained that in case of power failure generators have to be used to keep the pump functioning.
Citing past experiences they maintained that noise from the generator disturbs tranquillity of the locality consequently leading to some unruly elements stoning the petrol pumps, which in turn not only cause damage to the pump but also inflict injuries to the pump personnel.
Even though the meeting failed to arrive at a consensus those present were unanimous in taking up the matter in another meeting tentatively scheduled for May 24 and which is likely to be attended by the Chief Minister, chief Secretary, DGP and SPs of both Imphal East and West districts.
Besides the issue of fuel outlets, the forthcoming meeting will also discuss about keeping commercial establishments of Paona and Thangal Keithels (Bazars) open till 10 pm, the source added.
Due to conflict and disturbing situation, Imphal goes to sleep early with most of the commercial centres shutting down by dusk.