GOMATI: Allegations of black-marketing have surfaced against Gorji Petrol Pump in Gomati district, with locals alleging that fuel was being illegally sold in drums, allegedly to create an artificial shortage at the pump.
On Friday, visuals reportedly emerged showing fuel being sold in drums at the pump. When journalists attempted to film the activity, pump staff allegedly obstructed them from doing so.
When questioned, Pump Manager Narayan Saha claimed that the fuel in drums was being supplied to farmers. However, he was reportedly unable to produce valid documentation to support the claim when asked.
Local residents alleged that the manager has been deliberately selling fuel illegally in drums for black-marketing purposes, resulting in fuel shortages at the pump that force customers to buy fuel from outside at higher prices. Residents further claimed that drum sales cause longer queues and waiting times for regular customers.
Acting on information about the alleged illegal sale, police from Gorji Fari Police Station reached the spot and have launched an investigation into the matter.
Residents have urged the administration to take appropriate action against the pump if the allegations are found to be true.