In a recent development, it has been announced that the fuel pump operated by Indian Oil at Samvidhan Square (RBI) is going to be closed by the end of this month. Rajesh Nimbalkar, National Coordinator of the All India Unorganised Workers Congress, affiliated with the All India Congress Committee, revealed that the reason behind this decision is the termination of the lease agreement by UMANG, a unit of the Indian Army. UMANG has initiated the process to reclaim its land, prompting the closure of the fuel pump.
Nimbalkar, speaking at a press conference at Patrakar Bhawan, highlighted the imminent closure of a fuel pump would result in the loss of employment for its workers. This closure puts at risk the jobs of 63 individuals who tirelessly serve customers around the clock, selling 15,000 litres of petrol and 8,000 litres of diesel daily. Situated along a national highway, the pump serves both Nagpur residents and travelers passing through the area..
The proximity of the IOC pump at RBI Square to Civil Lines ensures maximum patronage from government office vehicles. Nimbalkar highlights the impending closure’s inconvenience for Nagpur residents, stressing strain on already congested alternative stations. He questions the necessity for land requisition, given ample existing defense land, emphasizing the pump’s importance as a convenient stopover. The closure threatens 63 workers’ livelihoods, prompting calls for accountability. Despite a plea to the IOC for worker absorption, they cite inability. Nimbalkar urges Nagpurians to rally, pressing authorities to avert the pump’s closure. The situation underscores broader concerns of job loss and community impact.