The Andhra Pradesh Lorry Owners’ Association urged the State government to intervene immediately over restrictions imposed by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) on dispensing diesel beyond 200 litres in a single transaction. They stated that the curbs were severely affecting transport operations across Andhra Pradesh.

In a representation submitted to Civil Supplies Commissioner K. Kanna Babu, the association said heavy goods vehicles and commercial transport carriers generally have fuel tank capacities of 350 to 400 litres and therefore require full-tank refuelling during long-distance trips. It alleged that OMCs, particularly IOCL, HPCL and BPCL, were issuing notices and blocking fuel sales through automation systems whenever dealers dispensed more than 200 litres of diesel in a single transaction.

They said the restrictions were causing serious inconvenience to transport operators and disrupting the smooth movement of goods vehicles. The association members appealed to the government to issue suitable directions to oil companies to ensure uninterrupted diesel supply to the transport sector.

Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh Federation of Petroleum Traders also sought government intervention, stating that petroleum dealers were being subjected to unnecessary action for supplying diesel beyond the prescribed limit. The federation pointed out that diesel was also being supplied to farmers, aquaculture operators, borewell operators and hospital generator users after obtaining proper authorisation from competent authorities.

The federation said the restrictions were adversely affecting the business operations and livelihood of genuine fuel dealers and urged the Civil Supplies Department to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply to transportation, agriculture, aquaculture and other essential services sectors.