The district administration in Nagpur has initiated measures to address growing concerns over diesel availability after revised procurement norms left hospitals, industries, housing societies, and small commercial users struggling to procure fuel for generators and other essential operations.
New Procurement Norms
Under the new norms, consumers requiring up to 200 litres of diesel per day can store and transport the fuel only in containers approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). Bulk consumers with higher requirements are expected to procure diesel directly from Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).
Practical Difficulties
The change has created practical difficulties for many users. District Supply Officer (DSO) Anand Padole said the administration has already convened a meeting with representatives of the three major OMCs — HPCL, IOCL, and BPCL — to streamline supplies and clarify the revised procedures.
WhatsApp Group for Guidance
"To ensure uninterrupted diesel availability, we have created a WhatsApp group comprising OMC officials and affected consumers. The group is being used to guide users on procurement procedures and inform them about sources from where PESO-approved containers can be purchased," Padole said.
Consignment of Approved Containers
He added that the Petrol Pump Association has arranged a consignment of PESO-approved containers from Gujarat to help consumers comply with the regulations. Citizens facing procurement difficulties have been asked to approach district supply officials for assistance.
Impact on Small-Scale Users
The restrictions have particularly affected small-scale users. Restaurant owner Hafeez Sharique said diesel-powered equipment purchased during the LPG shortage has become unusable.
"I invested nearly Rs1 lakh in two diesel burners and required around 40 litres of diesel daily. Since the new restrictions came into effect, I have not been able to procure diesel, leaving the entire setup idle," he said.
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