CAFPD cannot penalise fuel outlets : Oken
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 04 2012: Consumer Affairs, food and Public distribution Minister M Oken has stated that authorities of Indian Oil Corporation had issued strong instructions to fuel outlets against adulterating transport fuels.

The Minister's assertion was in response to a call attention motion by Trinamool Congress legislator Dr I ibohalbi on what action has been initiated against BB and Co, Sangaiprou fuel outlet where diesel-water mixture was detected by customers, and issues ranging from unauthorised sale of petrol/diesel to inconvenience faced by customers after refilling adulterated transport fuel.

With the MLA insisting that the suitable action for violating Essential Commodities Act should be initiated against the pump/owner, Oken said the CAF&PD has no power to penalise the fuel outlet as it is the prerogative of the IOC authorities.

Citing inspection report of CAF&PD officials, the Minister explained that rain-water seeped through bottom section of the diesel storage tanks which was found to be leaking.

Oken also quoted IOC authorities of reprimanding BB & Co officials on non compliance to prescribed rules that routine checking of pump accessories/machinery should be mandatory before entertaining the customers.

He also recounted that the pump official had tendered an apology to the customers on the procedural lapses.

Apart from IOC authorities reissuing strict instructions and carrying out random checks to avoid recurrence of such embarrassing situation, teams from Government departments are also conducting regular checking of fuel outlets, he informed the House today.

On the issue of kerosene oil, the Minister conceded that inspite of adding colour to check of adding colour to check unethical practice by traders, black-marketers continue to misuse the controlled item.

stating that petrol/diesel tankers would be checked to ascertain the content before it is unloaded, he explained opening of round the clock service at two fuel outlets in Imphal areas as a part of the Government mechanism to curb unauthorised sale of petrol/diesel.

Further informing that process is underway to ensure round-the-clock oil pump service in all the district headquarters, Oken highlighted that from july 2 onward 24x7 service has started at PCTC and Kusum Oil pumps.

Comment