Mizoram: Petrol shortage looms as tankers halt from September 17 due to highway woes

Mizoram faces an imminent fuel crisis as the Mizoram Oil Tanker Driver Association (MOTDA) and the Petroleum Entrepreneurs’ and Transporters’ Union of Mizoram (PETUM) announced a halt in tanker operations starting September 17, 2024.

The decision comes after a meeting held on the evening of September 13, where concerns were raised about the dire condition of National Highways 306 and 6. The roadways, deemed hazardous for tanker transit, have caused numerous tankers to break down and incur costly repairs, severely impacting the transportation of petrol and diesel.

With tankers currently stranded on the highways, many petrol stations are running out of fuel, prompting some to shut down their pumps. The stoppage in tanker operations is set to continue until essential repairs are made to the highway sections between Kawnpui and Sairang towns.

In addition to the fuel shortages, grocery stock points are experiencing supply issues as trucks are stuck on the damaged roads. The situation is compounded by truckers’ refusal to transport goods, citing damage during transit due to the poor road conditions. The impact of the highway's deteriorating state is thus being felt across multiple sectors, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.