Guwahati: Fuel shortages were reported at several petrol stations in Shillong on Friday night, with people seen waiting in long queues as some outlets reportedly ran out of petrol and diesel. The situation followed the August 19 incidents during a Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) protest.
Movement between Assam and Meghalaya was also affected after Assam taxi operators stopped vehicles travelling towards Meghalaya following the reported vandalism of more than 30 tourist vehicles. A similar blockade was later reported from the Meghalaya side.
The North-East Petroleum Mazdoor Union (NEPMZ) warned on Friday that it may stop carrying petrol, diesel and LPG from Assam to Meghalaya because of concerns over the safety of Assam-registered vehicles in the state.
The union said the proposed suspension would continue until the Meghalaya government takes effective steps to protect Assam-registered vehicles, including tourist vehicles.
It also sought the restoration of normal conditions and action against those responsible for the reported incidents and harassment.
NEPMZ general secretary Ramen Deka said the union had already halted loading and unloading of petroleum products in Meghalaya after reports of unrest from several parts of the state.
Deka said petroleum products can easily catch fire, making the safety of the vehicles and goods a concern.
He said the union’s members would not be prepared to carry petroleum products to Meghalaya if the situation remained unchanged, as they were concerned about their safety and transporting essential supplies under such conditions.
Security arrangements have also been stepped up in Shillong, with police and security personnel deployed in sensitive areas. Authorities in Assam and Meghalaya are continuing discussions and other measures aimed at bringing the situation back to normal.
At the same time, district administrations in several parts of Meghalaya have stopped the sale and distribution of petrol and diesel in loose quantities as a precautionary measure during the KSU agitation.
Orders issued by the authorities prohibit selling petrol and diesel in containers not authorised for the purpose, including jerry cans, bottles and other vessels, under the Petroleum Act, 1934.
Officials said uncontrolled sale and illegal storage of petroleum products could create fire risks, put lives and property in danger and affect public order.
The restrictions took effect immediately and will continue until further orders. Those violating the directions may face action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other applicable provisions.
Diesel can still be supplied to mobile towers and road construction companies under existing permissions, provided the relevant requirements under the Petroleum Act and other regulations are followed.
The orders were issued ex parte considering the urgency of the situation.