The Maharashtra state government issued a circular on Friday clarifying that commercial and industrial consumers requiring large quantities of diesel must procure fuel directly from oil marketing companies (OMCs) rather than from retail petrol pumps.
Purpose of the Circular
The circular, issued by the food, civil supplies and consumer protection department, aims to prevent diversion and unauthorized fuel purchases. It cited a surge in diesel demand and concerns that some industrial and bulk consumers were purchasing fuel from retail outlets instead of through authorized OMC bulk-supply channels, allegedly because retail diesel was cheaper.
Directives for Bulk Consumers
The circular directed authorities to ensure that bulk consumers procure fuel through OMC direct-sales mechanisms. It warned that action could be taken against both retail outlets and bulk consumers found violating the norms.
Monitoring and Enforcement
Officials have been instructed to closely monitor retail outlets showing sudden and abnormal increases in fuel sales. They are also tasked with checking hoarding, black marketing, diversion, and unauthorized fuel transport.
OMC Spokesperson's Clarification
Responding to queries from The Times of India, a spokesperson from the state-level coordinator for oil marketing companies stated that institutions with regular bulk fuel requirements should approach the OMCs' bulk and industrial sales channels, which can provide authorized doorstep delivery.
Exceptions for Hospitals and Agriculture
The circular also specified that diesel supply to hospitals and agricultural users should continue based on genuine requirements and appropriate verification.
This move is expected to streamline diesel distribution and ensure that bulk consumers adhere to proper procurement channels, thereby reducing the risk of fuel diversion and black marketing.
