Centre Issues Advisory, Warns Petrol Pumps Against Selling Fuel in Loose Containers

New Delhi: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued an advisory urging citizens not to store petrol or diesel in loose or unsuitable containers, warning that such practices can pose serious safety hazards. The ministry also cautioned petrol pump operators that strict action would be taken if they are found violating safety norms while dispensing fuel.

The advisory was issued after a petrol pump in Chennai was found supplying petrol to a consumer in an improper container. The ministry said it had come to notice that at a retail outlet in Tamil Nadu, fuel was being filled in a loose container, which is unsafe and not advisable. The petrol pump concerned has been suspended and appropriate action has been initiated, officials said.

The ministry clarified that there is adequate availability of petrol and diesel across the country and urged people not to store fuel unnecessarily or in unsafe containers.

In its advisory, the ministry said petrol and diesel stocks are sufficient at retail outlets nationwide and there is no need for panic storage. Consumers have been advised to avoid carrying or storing fuel in loose or inappropriate containers as it can lead to serious safety risks.

The ministry also directed fuel retailers and dealers to strictly follow all prescribed safety regulations while dispensing fuel. It warned that any violation of safety guidelines at petrol pumps will attract strict action.