Government Caps Diesel Sales At Petrol Pumps To 200 Litres Per Day

Government Limits Diesel Sales at Petrol Pumps to 200 Litres Per Day

The Central Government has imposed temporary restrictions on diesel sales at petrol pumps across the country. Under the new rules, a vehicle or consumer can purchase a maximum of 200 litres of diesel per day from a regular petrol pump. The order has already come into effect and will remain valid for 90 days, after which the government will review the situation.

Why Has the Government Taken This Step?

According to officials, many large consumers have recently started buying diesel from retail petrol pumps because it is much cheaper than purchasing it through bulk supply channels.

This has raised concerns about fuel availability for ordinary motorists and has also led to cases of diesel being diverted for non-automotive use.

The government says the new restrictions are intended to prevent bulk buying and ensure adequate fuel supplies for regular consumers.

Who Will Be Affected?

The new rules are expected to impact:

• Shopping malls
• Hospitals
• Manufacturing units
• Travel operators
• Private bus companies

Other businesses that consume large amounts of diesel, such organizations will now have to buy diesel from authorized bulk supply points instead of regular petrol pumps.

What Do the New Rules Say?

Petrol pumps can now supply diesel only: Directly into vehicle fuel tanks, or into containers approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). In addition, no consumer or vehicle can buy more than 200 litres of diesel in a day from a retail outlet. The resale of diesel purchased from petrol pumps is also prohibited.

Large Price Gap Behind the Move

Officials say a major reason for the restrictions is the wide difference between retail and bulk diesel prices.

For example, diesel in Delhi currently costs around ₹95.20 per litre at retail petrol pumps, while bulk buyers may have to pay around ₹134.50 per litre.

In some regions, bulk diesel prices reportedly touch ₹145 per litre, compared with retail prices of around ₹98.33 per litre.

Because of this difference, many large consumers have shifted to retail pumps for their diesel requirements.

Action Against Violators

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has already started monitoring compliance. In Rajasthan's Alwar district, notices have been issued to operators of 11 petrol pumps that were allegedly found selling diesel in excess of the prescribed limit. Officials have warned that fuel supplies could be suspended if violations continue.

Impact on Consumers

The government believes the restrictions will help prevent hoarding and excessive bulk purchases. Officials say the move is aimed at ensuring that diesel remains easily available to ordinary vehicle owners at petrol pumps across the country.