Curbs on movement of heavy vehicles hit CNG supply to fuel outlets

Most of the 77 fuel outlets in the city have been facing a dearth in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) over the past few days, due to the restrictions placed on the movement of heavy vehicles.

Official sources in the oil industry said that they were unable to supply around 45,000 kg of the 2.20 lakh kg of fuel delivered to 65,000 CNG vehicles (45,000 being autorickshaws) due to the restrictions.

Since most times CNG vehicles get to fill their tanks only at night, they are the most affected.

Karthick, an autorickshaw driver said that waiting for CNG was bothersome, but having to go from bunk to bunk was worse. “We wait for CNG only because the fuel gives better mileage,” he added.

“This has led to long queues, particularly of autorickshaws, at bunks with CNG. At times, some bunks even run out of the fuel, which is sent from Vallur in 150 trucks. Also, since each truck takes about two hours to decant the fuel, we need to spend more time in the city,” a dealer said.

Sources in the dealer network said they also faced problems when it came to obtaining petrol and diesel. “There are delays in the trucks reaching the outlets. The restrictions have been put in place, keeping in mind the safety of the public. However, these are essential goods, and when retail outlets go dry, it inconveniences the same public. We have urged the State-run oil marketing companies to take up the issue with the police,” a dealer said.

Meanwhile, another source said that as far as CNG was concerned, the issue had been raised with the police and various government officials, and hopefully, the problem would be resolved. They would also take up the issue of petrol and diesel trucks with the authorities concerned.