Fuel Shortage Averted: Petrol Dealers Postpone Protest After Minister’s Assurance

Pune, 16th October 2024: The Petrol Dealers’ Association has decided to defer its planned agitation following multiple meetings with the District Collector and a request from Union Minister and Pune MP Murlidhar Mohol. The decision comes after assurances were made by the Minister, who promised to take up the association’s concerns with the Petroleum Minister to ensure a resolution.

The Association initially planned the agitation over long-standing issues related to unfair tendering practices and theft in fuel transportation. However, considering the festive season and requests from the District Collector and Minister Mohol, the association agreed to delay the protest for a few weeks until the festive period is over.

“Similar issues are being faced by petrol dealers in other districts and states,” the association said in a statement. “They have assured support and are ready to join the state-wide agitation if these issues remain unresolved.”

One of the major concerns highlighted by the association is the practice of forcing dealers to sign blank pages related to tender pricing, which they claim goes against fair trade practices. The association has long been advocating for fair tender processes and stricter measures to curb fuel theft.

The association expressed optimism about the assurances from officials, stating, “We are confident our demands are just and will be addressed positively for the betterment of the trade and to safeguard our dealers in the long run.”

The agitation has been postponed, but the association made it clear that it would resume action if no progress is made after the festive season.