India Lifts Emergency Fuel Restrictions for Commercial Users from July 1
The Indian government on Monday announced the lifting of temporary restrictions on the sale of petrol and diesel to commercial users at retail outlets, effective July 1. The move reverses an emergency measure introduced on June 12, 2026, to ensure equitable fuel distribution during the West Asia conflict.
The restrictions were imposed under the Motor Spirit and High Speed Diesel (Temporary Regulation of Supply through Retail Outlets) Order, 2026, targeting transport operators and industrial units. The order was issued days before the United States and Iran reached an understanding that reopened the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments.
In a statement, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said it reviewed the prevailing supply situation and found that the emergency directions were no longer necessary. “The central government, on review of the prevailing supply situation of petroleum products, is satisfied that it is no longer necessary to continue with the directions in the said order,” the ministry said.
The lifting of curbs is expected to ease supply for commercial users, including bus and truck operators, as well as industries that rely on diesel for generators and machinery. The government had previously lifted similar restrictions on petrol and diesel for individual consumers earlier in the crisis.
Industry experts welcomed the decision, noting that fuel availability had stabilised after the geopolitical tensions eased. The move also aligns with the government’s broader aim of reducing regulatory interventions in fuel markets.
