Government Caps Fuel Purchases, New Rules for Diesel and Petrol Sales

The central government has issued new guidelines regulating the purchase of petrol and diesel. Under the latest order, industrial, commercial, and institutional consumers will no longer be allowed to buy fuel directly from retail petrol pumps.

The restriction has been imposed for an initial period of 90 days. During this period, large consumers will have to purchase their fuel requirements only from authorized bulk sale points.

The move comes amid rising global oil prices caused by tensions in the Middle East. While retail fuel prices were kept relatively stable to protect ordinary consumers, wholesale fuel prices increased significantly. This created a large price gap, encouraging factories, telecom operators, and other large consumers to buy fuel from retail outlets instead of wholesale suppliers.

As a result, concerns emerged over fuel shortages for the general public and disruptions to essential services. To address the issue, the government has introduced strict controls on bulk fuel purchases.

What Are the New Rules?

* Industrial, commercial, and institutional users cannot purchase petrol or diesel from retail petrol pumps.
* Such consumers must buy fuel directly from authorized bulk dealers.
* Diesel can only be sold into vehicle fuel tanks or PESO-certified containers.
* Fuel purchased from petrol pumps cannot be resold for profit.
* Violations may lead to action under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.

Daily Fuel Purchase Limit

To curb hoarding and suspicious purchases, the government has fixed a daily limit. Any vehicle or customer considered a large buyer can purchase a maximum of 200 litres of diesel per day from a petrol pump.

Enforcement Measures

Authorized government officials, police officers of DSP rank and above, and senior officers of oil companies have been empowered to inspect petrol pumps and seize stock if violations are found.