Patna: The Central Government has imposed fresh restrictions on the purchase and sale of petrol and diesel, barring industrial, commercial and institutional consumers from procuring fuel from retail petrol pumps. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has also capped diesel sales at 200 litres per customer or vehicle per day. The new rules have come into effect immediately.
The government said the move aims to prevent hoarding, black marketing and diversion of fuel while ensuring adequate supplies for ordinary consumers amid global and domestic market uncertainties.
Industrial and Commercial Consumers Barred from Retail Fuel Purchases
Under the revised guidelines, industrial units, commercial establishments and institutional consumers can no longer purchase petrol or diesel from regular retail outlets.
Such consumers will now be required to source fuel through authorised consumer pumps or designated supply channels.
The notification further states that diesel can only be dispensed into vehicle fuel tanks or containers approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). Resale of purchased diesel has also been prohibited.
Diesel Sale Limited to 200 Litres Daily
The government has fixed a daily purchase limit of 200 litres of diesel for any individual customer or vehicle.
Oil marketing companies and petrol pump operators have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the new rules. Violations may attract action under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, and other applicable laws.
Global Supply Concerns and Domestic Market Trends Behind Decision
According to the ministry, ongoing geopolitical tensions in several parts of the world have disrupted petroleum supply chains, shipping routes and fuel availability.
The government said the restrictions are intended to ensure balanced utilisation of available fuel stocks and maintain supply security.
Officials also pointed to unusual increases in fuel sales in certain regions. Large commercial consumers and factories were reportedly purchasing fuel directly from retail outlets to benefit from the price gap between retail and bulk supply channels, creating pressure on retail fuel availability.
Centre Targets Hoarding and Black Marketing
The government has expressed concern that unrestricted bulk purchases could encourage hoarding, black marketing and diversion of petroleum products.
To strengthen enforcement, gazetted officers of the Centre and states, police officers of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) rank and above, and sales officers of oil marketing companies have been authorised to conduct searches and seizures in suspected cases.
State governments have also been directed to take strict action against illegal fuel storage and black marketing.
No Impact on Ordinary Vehicle Owners
The Centre clarified that the restrictions will not affect regular consumers.
Owners of cars, motorcycles and other private vehicles will continue to purchase fuel normally. Officials noted that the 200-litre limit is far above the fuel tank capacity of most vehicles and is therefore unlikely to impact everyday users.
Restrictions Initially Applicable for 90 Days
The notification states that the restrictions will remain in force for an initial period of up to 90 days.
However, the government may extend the duration if required. It also retains the authority to exempt specific customers, regions or transactions under special circumstances.
Officials said the primary objective is to regulate large-scale fuel purchases, prevent stockpiling and ensure uninterrupted fuel availability at petrol pumps for the general public.
