Pune petrol pump operators go on strike, could potentially impact fuel availability

Petrol pump operators in Pune started an indefinite strike in Pune on Tuesday, claiming petroleum companies have not met their demands.

Operators will stop sending tanks to petroleum depots, potentially leading to fuel shortages from Wednesday and public inconvenience.

The Petrol Dealers’ Association in Pune said that faulty tender practices in fuel transportation are leading to increased fuel theft. It added that no action was taken despite the operators decided to proceed with the shutdown, it said.

The body wants immediate cancellation of all existing transportation tenders, and issuance of new ones with viable rates to ensure safer fuel delivery.

The dealers also called for the immediate suspension of officials who neglected safety protocols, contributing to operational inefficiencies.

The association also demands a thorough police investigation into officials’ possible involvement in fuel theft.