EMN
KOHIMA/DIMAPUR, AUGUST 6
NO one knows how it all began or where the news originated. But somewhere midway into Tuesday news quickly spread that there was a possibility that fuel supplies could run out due to the agitation over statehood demand by several organisations in Assam creating jams on the roads and the petrol stations in Dimapur and Kohima. All essential commodities including fuel come via Assam and any disruption along the route directly impacts the state.The situation in Kohima was compounded by several petrol pump outlets being allegedly directed by the district administration to ration supply of fuel .This direction was said to have been issued in the backdrop of the Assam violence and the affect it has had on the normal maintenance of rail and road communications. Road traffic almost came to a standstill as hundreds of vehicles made a beeline to the petrol pumps to stock up on fuel. Commuters were stuck in the chaotic traffic jam for hours to reach their destinations, which normally would take 15-20 minutes .
A similar frenzy was enacted at the gas stations in Dimapur. Petrol pumps which usually close down at around 8 to 8:30 pm were still seen open catering to the needs of the customers even after their usual closing time. At some depots, some customers were seen grudgingly waiting long hours in the queue. Some car owners were even seen bringing along with them jerry-cans in case they run out of fuel over the next few days.
Observing the situation, Takomoa, a businessman from Dimapur who had come to get his share said “There is every possibility of acute shortage of petrol, diesel in the next few days. The ongoing strike in Assam will effectively cripple the entire state and hinder production and supply.”
Eastern Mirror talking to the General Manager of IOC, D.M. Maring learnt that rumours of a fuel shortage could perhaps be traced to the little problem with petrol” faced at the IOC at its depot. with the delayed arrival of one of its oil rake due to the interrupted train time table.The IOC is the largest distributor of both petrol and diesel to Nagaland. Daily the IOC supplies some 72,000 litres of petrol and 2,50,000 litres of diesel.
With one wagon arriving early on Wednesday the GM IOC expressed confidence that there would be no scarcity.
Meanwhile a public notice issued by Elizabeth Ngully, Chief Executive Officer, Kohima Municipal Council, informs the general public that the ongoing Karbi-Anglong Bandh will not have adverse effects on the availability of essential commodities in the market.
There is sufficient stock of essential commodities in the market. Therefore, the public are requested not to indulge in panic purchases. This may create hoarding of essential commodities by unscrupulous traders.
All stockists and traders have been directed to sell the commodities as per the rates fixed by Kohima Municipal Council. Failing which, the Municipal Council will take appropriate action against the defaulters.
The general public is also informed of the availability of LPG (Gas) and Petroleum products as per the information received from the Department of Food & Civil Supplies. Sufficient stock of petroleum products are on transit by road and railways and will be available to all the consumers.
Therefore, the general public are requested once again not to indulge in panic purchases causing inconveniences to all the citizens.
Similarly in Dimapur, the Director of Food & Civil Supplies, Sedevikho Khro has clarified that there is nothing to worry as for the moment.
“The department is in touch with the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and the district administration. So as far as the present position is concerned, everything is stable,” Khro told Eastern Mirror, adding that the concerned department will initiate measures in any eventuality.
On rumours that price of commodities could rise any time, he refused to comment stating that it is under the purview of the Dimapur Municipal Council. He, however, asked the public not to panic for requirement of essential commodities.
Khro further informed that the Assam police personnel are providing security to those vehicles passing through Karbi-Anglong, especially the goods-laden trucks bound for Nagaland and Manipur.
The Addl SP Dimapur confirmed that security is being rendered out to vehicles passing through Karbi-Anglong areas, in the vulnerable areas.
He also informed that the bandh in Karbi areas has been reportedly lifted for the moment, but said that the curfew is still being imposed during night starting from 6 pm to 6 am.
