A petrol pump located in Agartala city has been temporarily sealed by authorities after serious allegations of selling petrol and diesel in unauthorized loose containers such as drums and plastic bottles surfaced. The fuel outlet, situated at Ganaraj Chowmuhani, came under scrutiny following complaints from vigilant consumers and subsequent viral videos on social media.
According to official sources, a joint team comprising officials from the Food and Civil Supplies Department along with other concerned agencies conducted an inspection at the site. The visit followed an incident on Friday night when tensions flared between customers and the petrol pump operators. Several customers, who were waiting in queue to refill their vehicles, reportedly noticed the staff dispensing fuel into plastic containers and drums—an act that violates established safety norms and regulatory guidelines.
As the situation escalated, an altercation broke out between the consumers and the fuel station staff. The commotion reportedly continued for nearly an hour. During this time, some alert individuals captured videos of the alleged malpractice and shared them on social media platforms, where they quickly went viral and drew the attention of the authorities.
Acting promptly on the evidence available online and the complaints received, officials carried out a spot inspection at the petrol pump. Upon verification, the allegations were found to be true. Authorities termed the act a “gross violation” of rules governing the safe storage and sale of petroleum products.
An official involved in the inspection stated, “We received complaints about the sale of fuel in plastic containers. Based on this, we conducted an inquiry at the site. The allegations were substantiated during our investigation. A show cause notice has been issued to the owners, and the pump has been directed to remain closed until further notice.”
When asked about the reopening of the fuel station, the official clarified that no specific timeline has been set. “The outlet will be allowed to resume operations only after the issue is thoroughly addressed and compliance with all regulations is ensured,” he added.
The incident has raised concerns over safety practices and regulatory enforcement at fuel stations in the region.
