BHUBANESWAR, ODISHA — The Odisha government has initiated a stringent crackdown on unapproved fuel sales, particularly petrol and diesel sold in plastic bottles and by unauthorized vendors. This decisive action, effective from Tuesday, July 22, 2025, aims to curb rising incidents of violent crimes and fire hazards linked to the misuse of highly flammable substances. Anyone found in violation of the new regulations will face severe legal consequences, including potential license cancellations and criminal prosecution, according to a recent directive from the state’s Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department.
Rationale Behind the Strict Enforcement
The government’s move comes in response to a disturbing increase in incidents where petrol and other inflammable fuels have been weaponized, leading to tragic outcomes. Notably, a recent self-immolation attempt at FM College in Balasore and another incident in Puri where a young girl was set ablaze using kerosene have underscored the critical need for stricter controls. Authorities have identified an alarming trend of criminals substituting acid with petrol in violent assaults, necessitating immediate and robust measures to enhance public safety.
Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Petrol is a highly flammable and dangerous substance, and its misuse has resulted in several tragic incidents recently. Anyone found selling petrol in plastic bottles or without proper authorization will face legal action” (Deccan Chronicle, July 22, 2025). The minister has directed all district collectors to conduct surprise inspections at petrol pumps and informal vendors across the state.
New Guidelines and Permissible Sales
Under the newly enforced guidelines, the sale of petrol and diesel is strictly prohibited in plastic bottles. Only licensed sales in approved containers, such as tin cans or glass bottles, will be permitted, and these transactions are to be strictly for legitimate agricultural purposes, such as powering grass cutters and generators. Fuel pump operators have received explicit instructions to cease dispensing fuel into containers that do not comply with safety norms.
For agricultural or institutional needs, buyers will be allowed to purchase fuel in tin containers with a capacity exceeding 20 litres, provided they present valid documentation. This provision aims to distinguish between legitimate, necessary bulk purchases and small-scale, unauthorized loose sales that often occur at roadside stalls.
Addressing the Black Market and Roadside Vendors
The government’s focus is particularly sharp on curbing unlicensed small-scale sales, which are prevalent in crowded urban and semi-urban areas. Despite existing legal restrictions, the open sale of petrol and diesel in plastic bottles by roadside vendors has been a persistent issue. The Petroleum Dealers’ Association, Odisha, has long highlighted the problem of rampant black-marketing and adulteration associated with illegally sold fuel. “This is not just unsafe but also illegal. We have raised this issue with the government, and action is being taken,” stated Sanjay Lath, General Secretary of the Petroleum Dealers’ Association (Pragativadi, July 20, 2025).
Enforcement teams have been deployed to monitor both authorized petrol pumps and unauthorized roadside vendors to ensure comprehensive compliance with the new directives. The state government has formally adopted a zero-tolerance policy against the unsafe handling and sale of flammable fuels.
Enforcement and Penalties
The inspection drive is expected to intensify in the coming days. Violators, whether individuals selling fuel illegally or petrol pump operators found complicit in such activities, may face severe penalties. These include the cancellation of their licenses and the initiation of criminal proceedings. The government’s proactive stance is designed to rectify previous enforcement gaps and ensure that dangerous practices are curtailed effectively.
Former Director General of Police Sanjeev Marik emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling for “strict restrictions” on illegal fuel sales and prompt prosecution of culprits through special courts (Deccan Chronicle, July 21, 2025). Public awareness campaigns are also expected to be launched, urging citizens to purchase fuel only from authorized petrol stations using approved containers.
The regulations aim to restore public confidence and foster a safer environment across Odisha by mitigating fire hazards and preventing the misuse of fuel in criminal activities. This comprehensive approach underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing public safety and regulating the distribution and retail sale of petrol and diesel across the state.
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Broader Implications for Public Safety
This decisive action by the Odisha government serves as a significant step towards enhancing public safety and curbing the illicit trade of flammable substances. The emphasis on licensed sales and approved containers is expected to create a more secure ecosystem for fuel distribution, reducing the risks associated with unauthorized handling. The sustained enforcement of these regulations will be critical in mitigating future incidents and ensuring long-term safety for the state’s residents.
