An alleged restriction in fuel distribution by some of the oil marketing companies in the wake of the latest price hike has sparked concern among petrol pump owners across northern Kerala districts, with many dealers warning that continued disruption could force them to suspend operations temporarily.
Operators in Kozhikode, Wayanad and Malappuram districts said many outlets were facing unforeseen disruption in fuel supply, leading to uncertainty over regular operations. Some dealers in Kozhikode alleged that supply restrictions were in place soon after reports emerged about the increase in fuel prices.
Petrol and diesel prices hike LIVE
According to dealers, fuel companies were delaying deliveries despite advance payment being made for the required stock. “They are citing various technical reasons and issues with the refineries to delay the stock. We are going through an unpredictable business situation,” a pump owner in Kozhikode city said.
He also claimed that the regulation affected several local petroleum dealers, mainly dependent on the HPCL depot at Elathur. A few fuel stations had already been forced to suspend operations temporarily owing to shortage of stock, he said.
