The Andhra Pradesh government's request to oil marketing companies for bulk supply of high-speed diesel for the construction of Amaravati has been turned down by the central government. The Union petroleum secretary directed the state chief secretary to withdraw the request, highlighting that bulk allotments to retail channels are not permitted under current regulations.
Diesel Requirement for Amaravati
The state's civil supplies commissioner, K Kanna Babu, had written to oil companies seeking diesel from nearby retail outlets, projecting a total requirement of 27,566 kilolitres until July. The monthly breakdown included 4,238 kilolitres for April, 8,879 kilolitres for May, 7,527 kilolitres for June, and 6,920 kilolitres for July. The commissioner emphasized that Amaravati, as a flagship project, needed an assured supply to avoid construction delays. The proposal specifically requested facilitation of diesel allocation from nearby petrol pumps at retail prices to meet these requirements.
Central Government's Response
Union petroleum secretary Dr Neeraj Mittal noted that retail pumps are licensed only for dispensing fuel into vehicle tanks or approved containers, not for bulk supply. This regulatory restriction formed the basis for the central government's rejection of the state's request.
Political Reactions
YSRCP state coordinator Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy criticized the state government, alleging that the petroleum crisis was a "man-made havoc." He dismissed claims of panic buying and accused the state of shifting blame onto the public. The controversy highlights the ongoing tensions between the state and central governments over resource allocation for the capital city project.
