123Pune.com

PUNE: In the backdrop of the recent diesel shortage in the district, oil companies on Monday promised an increase in diesel supplies to the district by 20 per cent this month over August, 2007.

According to the expected supply figures released by the three government-owned oil companies, IOC, HPCL and BPCL, they will supply 16 lakh litres of diesel to the rural parts and 7.10 lakh litres to the urban areas of the district daily in August. The oil companies held a joint meeting on Monday to discuss issues relating to the supply of diesel in the district.

Fuel dealers and oil companies have been instructed not to sell fuel in cans, barrels and tanks to industries, malls, IT companies, theatres and other commercial establishments.

The city faced a severe shortage of diesel in the last 10 days due to a nearly 30% rise in demand from companies and industries.

Baba Shinde, president of the petrol dealers’ association, Pune, said, “The oil companies have announced an increase in the quota of supply of diesel by 15% to 20%. All fuel dealers in the district have been asked not sell fuel in cans and barrels. All petrol pumps in the city will remain open from 7 am to 10 pm and owners, if needed, can keep the pumps closed either on Sunday or Thursday.”

Shinde said dealers have also been asked to keep a daily account of diesel supplies. As of today, pumps in the district are receiving normal supply of fuel, he stated.

Oil company officials said the IOC will supply 6.60 lakh litres of diesel daily, while HPCL and BPCL will supply 8.50 lakh litres and 8 lakh litres respectively. IOC has 104, HPCL 125 and BPCL 87 petrol pumps in the district.
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