Fuel Sales Restrictions in Chandigarh Amid Truckers Strike
Truckers Strike led by certain associations entered its second day on Tuesday, the Chandigarh administration took measures to limit the fuel sales. This decision arose as people queued up at fuel stations across various locations in Punjab, driven by concerns that stocks might soon deplete.
In response to the nationwide strike, Chandigarh has implemented restrictions on fuel sales (petrol and diesel). Effective immediately, two-wheelers in Chandigarh are now restricted to purchasing only 2 litres or a maximum value of ₹200 worth of fuel, while four-wheelers face limitations of 5 litres or a maximum value of ₹500.
A press release from the Chandigarh administration stated, “In light of the ongoing strike by fuel-tanker drivers and restricted supply of Petrol & Diesel in UT Chandigarh, District Magistrate Chandigarh, by orders, has imposed temporary restrictions on Petrol/Diesel sale at fuel stations in Chandigarh.”
District Measures to Mitigate Fuel Shortages in the Wake of Transport Strike:
The district magistrate underscored the significance of the imposed restrictions as a precautionary measure to manage the existing situation until normalcy is reinstated. The statement emphasized ongoing efforts to restore fuel supply to Chandigarh, emphasizing collaborative initiatives with oil marketing companies and the authorities of Punjab and Haryana.
These limitations, described as proactive measures, aim to ensure the equitable availability of fuel during this temporary disruption. Fuel station operators are urged to comply with these regulations, and consumers are kindly requested to cooperate with the imposed restrictions. The district magistrate clarified that these steps are crucial until the situation stabilizes.
Amidst the strike-induced absence of trucks, tempos, and containers on the roads, the Punjab government appealed to the public to refrain from panic buying, providing assurances of ample fuel stocks.
Rajesh Kumar, the Secretary-General of the Punjab Petroleum Dealers Association, highlighted the impact on nearly 4,000 petrol pumps in the state, expressing concerns about a potential fuel shortage if the situation persists. Kumar mentioned reaching out to the Punjab chief minister to address the looming crisis.
The impact of the transport strike extends beyond Chandigarh, with district authorities in Hamirpur, Una, and Bilaspur issuing directives for fuel rationing. The Himachal Roadways Transport Corporation (HRTC) has responded by rationalizing routes, halting bus services on 138 routes with low occupancy, as reported by PTI.
Protest by Truck, Bus, and Tanker Operators: Opposition to Stringent Hit-and-Run Regulations
Commencing on Monday, truck, bus, and tanker operators initiated a three-day strike, expressing their discontent with the rigorous regulations outlined in the new criminal law, Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), particularly concerning hit-and-run cases.
The recently enacted law, replacing the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, introduces severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to 10 years and/or a fine of ₹7 lakh for individuals involved in serious road accidents due to negligent driving, especially those where drivers flee without informing the police.
Truckers argue that many drivers, even in minor accidents, choose to flee to avoid potential mob justice, which could endanger their lives. They contend that while mobs often go unpunished, subjecting drivers to stringent penalties is unjust.
Post on Twitter Related Truckers Strike:
Original Credit: Ramsa Chaudhary
#TruckDriversProtest ends after a meeting between the President of All India Motor Transport Congress and Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla:
Credit: Sanchit
Also Read: Transforming Road Safety: Unveiling the Progressive Aspects of India’s New Hit and Run Law 2023.
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