NT Reporter
Margao/Panaji
In a bid to protect public safety, South Goa collector Egna Cleetus, who holds additional charge of the Kushavati district, and North Goa Collector Ankit Yadav, have imposed an immediate ban on the sale of petrol and diesel in loose quantities in cans, bottles, and other containers at all retail fuel outlets across the
districts.
The orders were issued after reports emerged that several fuel stations were selling fuel in loose form
to customers.
“This practice creates serious risks, including
fire hazards, unlawful storage, hoarding, black-marketing, and possible misuse of petroleum products,” said Cleetus and Yadav in separate orders.
Authorities said strict regulation had become necessary to maintain
law and order and ensure compliance with safety standards.
Under the new directions, fuel stations will be allowed to dispense fuel only directly into the tanks of motor vehicles in accordance with prescribed safety norms, the order stated, adding that fuel may be sold in containers only in exceptional and bona fide circumstances.
“Any violation will invite strict legal action under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, including provisions related to hoarding and blackmarketing. Offenders may also face action under the Petroleum Act, 1934, the Petroleum Rules, 2002, and Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. Penalties may include suspension or cancellation of licences,” the orders said.
To ensure enforcement, the Superintendent of Police, all police stations, and all Sub-Divisional Magistrates have been directed to carry out strict checks and surprise inspections at fuel stations. Officials said the order has come into force immediately and will remain effective until further notice.
