West Bengal Government Eases Diesel Container Ban for Critical Sectors
The West Bengal government has partially lifted the ban on carrying diesel in containers, a restriction imposed earlier this year by the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas amid the West Asia conflict. The decision aims to reduce distress among farmers, hospitals, and emergency service providers.
According to an official announcement, major oil companies have been directed to grant complete exemptions from restrictions for critical sectors including healthcare, agriculture, food supply, public services, and tea gardens. Individuals and organisations in these sectors can now carry diesel in containers or vessels, and the previous upper limit for fueling has been relaxed. Only a basic identity card is required at petrol pumps.
The ban had caused significant hardship, as many farmers and small businesses rely on containerised diesel for operating pumps, generators, and vehicles. The relaxation is expected to ease operations in rural areas and essential services.
