Fuel hike: Maharashtra Government warns fuel hoarders to abandon practice

Sangli (Maharashtra), May 31 : Authorities in Maharashtra have called for strict action against those petrol pump owners who are resorting to the hoarding of petrol and diesel ahead of an expected hike in fuel prices.

Petrol pump owners in the state's Sangli District on Saturday claimed that they have restricted fuel supply to customers as a result of the shortage.

"We are giving a litre each to everybody. We have spoken to the depot regarding the stocking of petrol, but they have expressed their helplessness, as they themselves are not getting proper supply, and once the petrol wagon comes, we well be in a position to supply," said Ram Suryanvanshi, the manager of a petrol pump.

Meanwhile, the authorities have ordered strict action against any petrol pump owner indulging in the hoarding of petrol and diesel.

"We have issued a notice to seal the petrol pumps that have stocks but are not selling petrol or diesel. Petrol pump owners who are waiting to sell fuel once there is rise in the prices must stop this practice. The authorities are keeping a track on petrol pumps and action would be taken against those found guilty," said Jayant Patil, Finance Minister, Maharashtra.

There is a possibility of a hike in fuel prices in the near future, and this prospect has caused alarm in some quarters. It is expected that the price of petrol will be increased by Rs 3, 4, 5 or 7 a litre, while the price of diesel is expected to be raised by Rs 1, 2, 3 and 4 per litre. Besides, a Rs 20 per cylinder hike in domestic LPG price may also be proposed.

The current petrol price is Rs 48.22 (Premium) and Rs 45.22 (Normal). Diesel is priced at Rs 33.05 currently.

Crude petroleum prices have gone up four times in the last five years, eleven times in nine years and doubled in the last year. The cost of a barrel of oil has increased like never before and it appears it will increase further.

On Friday US crude climbed to 127.90 Dollar a barrel, while London Brent to 128.48 Dollar a barrel.

While, the core group of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government met on Friday evening (May 30) to review the options available to the Government to tackle the spurt in global crude prices, but it is not clear if a price hike will be taken by the Cabinet on Saturday.

ANI