Mumbai: The state government’s proposed “No PUC, No Petrol” policy has triggered panic among petrol pump operators and staff, with fears that its enforcement could spark serious law-and-order problems at fuel stations.
Amit Gupta, president of the Federation of All Maharashtra Petrol Dealers Association (FAMPEDA), cautioned that the policy, though aimed at curbing pollution, could lead to clashes with customers. “If implemented at petrol pumps, the situation may escalate,” Gupta warned, reflecting widespread unease among operators.
In a letter submitted to Transport Minister Pratap Sarnayak on September 16, FAMPEDA acknowledged that with the surge in vehicles, pollution checks are vital for protecting the environment. However, the association insisted that enforcement must remain the responsibility of government authorities rather than petrol pump staff.
Dealers expressed concern that employees might avoid duty if forced to deny fuel to customers without valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates. Given that petrol is an essential commodity, they fear such refusals could provoke heated confrontations, with the flammable nature of petroleum products heightening the risk of accidents.
“Any scuffle at a fuel station could quickly spiral into a public safety hazard,” the association noted, urging the ministry to reconsider the decision in its current form.
Despite their apprehensions, Gupta assured that dealers across Maharashtra are ready to cooperate with the state by conducting awareness campaigns to encourage motorists to comply with pollution norms.
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