Pune Petrol Pump Strike: Fuel Shortage Worsens as Operators Halt Fuel Supply
Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad are facing a growing fuel shortage as petrol pump operators began their indefinite strike on Tuesday. The strike, involving approximately 900 petrol pump operators across Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad and nearby rural areas, is in response to unresolved demands from petroleum companies. Operators have stopped sending fuel tankers to company depots, severely disrupting the fuel supply in the region.
According to Dhruv Ruparel President of the Petrol Dealers Association, the strike was triggered by what operators describe as unfair tendering practices by petroleum companies. The companies are accused of issuing tenders at unviable rates, leading to concerns about the safety of fuel transportation and public welfare. Operators are calling for the immediate cancellation of current tenders and the introduction of new ones at viable rates to ensure safe and efficient fuel distribution.
Key Issues Behind the Strike
• Unfair Tendering Practices: The main grievance is that petroleum companies are issuing tenders for fuel transportation at low rates, ignoring safety concerns and the sustainability of the operations.
• Fuel Theft Concerns: Operators have highlighted that fuel theft has been an ongoing issue, with ten incidents reported in the past two years. The recent theft, which led to a crackdown under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), has prompted the operators to demand stricter action and accountability from petroleum companies.
• Neglected Safety Protocols: Operators are also demanding the suspension of officials who have failed to enforce proper safety measures during fuel transportation.
Impact on Pune’s Fuel Supply
With 85% of fuel tankers being owned by the striking petrol pump operators, the city’s fuel supply is quickly running dry. Many petrol stations in Pune and surrounding areas experienced shortages overnight, with a complete halt in fuel supply expected if the strike continues. The remaining 15% of tankers, operated by private transporters, are struggling to meet the demand.
Public Reaction and Further Negotiations
The strike followed a failed round of negotiations with petroleum companies on 14th October, Monday. As of now, no further talks have been scheduled, and the operators remain firm on their demands. Ruparal emphasized that the petroleum companies are responsible for ensuring adequate fuel delivery and that the public inconvenience caused by the strike is a result of their failure to address the operators’ concerns.
If the strike continues, Pune could face significant fuel shortages in the coming days, further aggravating the city’s daily commutes and transportation needs.