Petrol pumps to reopen from today
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 17 2024: Bringing major relief, retail outlets have decided to open petrol pumps in the valley from tomorrow.

Petrol pumps across the valley were shut from yesterday following a decision by the retail outlets to close business for three days.

Notably, petrol was sold on roadsides and shops at inflated prices yesterday and today.

The price of petrol outside the pumps/stations reached as high as Rs 180 per litre in some parts of the valley.

Meanwhile, the decision to open the pumps/stations was taken after several discussions with various enti- ties including oil marketing companies and State Chief Secretary, said representatives of the retail outlets at Hotel Nirmala today afternoon.

The retail outlets discussed their grievances with officials of the oil marketing companies via video conference.

The retail outlets highlighted their grievances including the issue of illegal tax collection on highways, difficulties regarding sales and "pressure" from banks pertaining to loans.

The retail outlets urged the officials of oil marketing companies for a more convenient credit facility.

In the evening yesterday, the retail outlets discussed their grievances with Chief Secretary Dr Vineet Joshi.

The retail outlets urged the Chief Secretary for steps to waive off interests on loans and increase tenure of EMI (Equated Monthly Instalment) .

They urged the Chief Secretary to provide a 14-day window to reduce prices of oil, instead of changing the prices overnight.

They further sought the attention of the Chief Secretary on the issue of organisations "demanding" money from the outlets and requested for proper security measures.

The decision to open the pumps was taken as the meeting with the Chief Secretary and OMC officials saw positive developments, and considering the appeals made by various civil society organisations, said the retail outlets.

While the meeting with the Chief Secretary and the oil marketing companies will continue, the retail outlets appealed to all individuals, groups and organisations concerned to accept their "donations" .

The retail outlets may be forced to shut pumps again if their appeal is not heard, they said.

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