State cracks down on illegal fuel trade with stricter monitoring

The state government has stepped up monitoring of petroleum product sales and transportation to prevent illegal activities. Fourteen senior officials, including divisional commissioners and district collectors, have been given authority to crack down on violations like black marketing and adulteration.

The empowered officials must now submit daily reports by 6pm. These reports will cover inspections, confiscated tankers, and penalties imposed on retailers breaking the rules. The government has also warned against panic buying, assuring citizens that enough petrol and diesel stocks are available.

Commercial and industrial buyers have been told to source fuel directly from authorised oil marketing companies. Meanwhile, sales for agricultural and fishing purposes must continue without disruption. To maintain order, administrative and police teams will assist petrol stations with crowd control and discipline. The crackdown targets illegal storage, unauthorised sales, overcharging, and the distribution of substandard products. Officials have been instructed to take immediate action against any violations found during their checks.

The new measures aim to ensure smooth fuel distribution while preventing illegal trade. Daily monitoring and strict reporting will help maintain transparency in the supply chain. Authorities have also reassured the public that essential services, like farming and fishing, will remain unaffected by the enforcement drive.