Aizawl: Donny Lalruatsanga, district magistrate of Lawngtlai district, issued an order on Friday banning the sale of oil from the district to Myanmar and other foreign countries, citing a possible shortage and the need to enforce austerity measures on petrol, diesel and cooking gas.
Lalruatsanga stated that those given special permits by competent authorities will be exempted from the ban.
The order allows filling stations to sell up to 30 litres of motor spirit (MS) and 100 litres of high speed diesel (HSD) per day in containers to each person who is not a licence holder. Filling stations have also been barred from selling fuel above normal rates. Illegal transportation of fuel within Lawngtlai district has also been prohibited.
Separately, executive member in charge of the revenue department of the Lai Autonomous District Council (LADC), Lalropuia Chinzah, on Friday cautioned members of the Lawngtlai District Merchant Association (LDMA) over what he described as “mushrooming unregulated transnational border trade with Myanmar.”
Background and Context
The decision comes amid concerns over potential fuel shortages in the district, which shares a border with Myanmar. The district magistrate emphasized the need for austerity measures to ensure adequate supply for local residents. The ban targets bulk sales to foreign entities, particularly across the border, while allowing limited purchases for personal use.
Exemptions and Regulations
Entities with special permits from competent authorities are exempt from the ban. Filling stations are required to adhere to strict limits on container sales: 30 litres of MS and 100 litres of HSD per person per day. Selling fuel above normal rates is strictly prohibited, and any illegal transportation of fuel within the district is banned.
Concerns Over Border Trade
Lalropuia Chinzah of the LADC expressed concern about unregulated transnational border trade with Myanmar, which he described as “mushrooming.” He warned the LDMA about the risks and urged compliance with regulations to prevent illegal activities.
The measures reflect the district’s efforts to control fuel distribution and curb unauthorized trade, ensuring that local needs are prioritized amidst regional challenges.
