Fuel tanker drivers call off strike
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 13 2026: The Petroleum Product Drivers Association has called off its steering-down strike with immediate effect , following an agreement with Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh.

In a statement, the Association said the resolution to withdraw the protest was called off following assurances and monetary compensation announced for grievously injured drivers by the Chief Minister.

It said that drivers would resume loading petrol and diesel from the Malom Depot and LPG from the Sekmai Bottling Plant.

Transportation of loaded petroleum products from Jiribam to Imphal would also resume, it said.

However, it added that petroleum tanker and LPG bullet drivers will not join an empty convoy until a meeting is held with the Chief Minister and other concerned stakeholders.

The meeting is expected to be held on or before September 15, the Association said.

The Association expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to the public during the strike and thanked people for their support to drivers facing hardships along the National Highway.

It appealed to all communities and committees in Manipur to refrain from targeting drivers carrying essential commodities.

Drivers belong to all communities, and the essential items belong to all communities, the association said, urging all communities to not target drivers in the future.

Meanwhile, the Manipur IOCL Retail Outlet Dealers Association, Manipur has urged the IOCL and the Manipur Government to take immediate and appropriate steps to ensure the safety and security of drivers and helpers during petroleum transportation.

It also urged all concerned to maintain adequate fuel stock at Malom oil depot through timely and increased replenishment.

The Association emphasised that the Malom depot plays a critical role in ensuring the State's fuel security.

Any disruption or inadequate replenishment of stocks at Malom depot affects not only retail outlets and the general public but also essential services and security establishments that depend on regular fuel supplies, it added.

Moreover, the Association urged the IOCL and the State Government to increase the movement of IOCL tankers on National Highway 37 considering the dependence on the Malom depot for fuel supplies.

It further urged the Govt to ensure uninterrupted movement of petroleum tankers so that retail outlets do not face prolonged dry outs, regular loading opportunities for EOI dealer transporters attached to Ma-lom depot and effective contingency supply arrangements whenever loading or highway movement is disrupted.

The Association also demanded safe passage and adequate security arrangements for petroleum tankers and timely communication regarding stock position, loading schedules and contingency arrangements so that dealers can plan their supplies effectively.

Comment