Imphal, February 08: Expressing serious concern over the bomb attack at the Tuks and Bon oil pump at Hatta Golapati on February 7 by unidentified miscreants on the ground that it could have led to a major catastrophe, the petrol pump dealers of Manipur have decided to close their outlet on February 11 (Monday) as a mark of protest.

Speaking to reporters at Manipur Press Club today, the dealers said that petrol pump premises are highly inflammable and strict safety norms are laid down under the Explosives Act.

In fact so stringent is the norm, that use of mobile phones at petrol pump premises is forbidden, they said and added that the potential damage that may be caused by hurling bombs and use of fire arms at petrol pumps can only be imagined.

The decision to close the pump on February 11 was taken during a meeting today, said the dealers and added that it was also decided to appeal to all concerned and NGOs, civil society organisations and clubs to support the move taken up by the dealers.

The very act of hurling an explosive at a petrol pump could have caused immense loss to the people, said the dealers and added that an awareness drive is needed against such action.

Appealing to the public to bear with the inconveniences, the dealers said that the pumps will be closed to spread the message of public safety and to protest the use of fire arms at petrol pumps' premises.

Comment