Mon Oct 14 07:41:22 UTC 2024: ## Pune Petrol Dealers to Strike Over Fuel Theft and Unfair Tender Practices

**Pune, October 10, 2024** – The Petrol Dealers Association (PDA) Pune will embark on an indefinite strike from October 15, refusing to send tankers for fuel loading due to allegations of rampant theft and unfair tender practices by oil companies. The association claims that the companies are offering unreasonably low rates for fuel transportation, leading to widespread theft and endangering public safety.

According to the PDA, the oil companies have been awarding tenders to transporters at unsustainable rates, forcing them to engage in illegal activities to survive. The association alleges that over 65% of transporters awarded contracts have been involved in fuel theft, with authorities taking action against them.

The PDA also expressed concern over the oil companies’ disregard for safety protocols during fuel transportation. Despite investing in theft-proof systems like e-locking and vehicle tracking, thefts continue to occur, highlighting the negligence of company officials responsible for monitoring these systems.

The association has demanded immediate cancellation of existing tenders and the publication of new tenders with fair rates that ensure safe and viable fuel transportation. They also called for the suspension of oil company officials involved in abetting thefts and urged the police to investigate their involvement.

“The oil companies are promoting thefts by giving such low rates, eventually affecting the consumers,” said Dhruv Ruparel, president of PDA Pune. “We demand that the company officials should be booked under the MCOCA as without their support, theft is not possible.”

The PDA has informed the Ministry of Petroleum, local administration, and oil companies about the planned agitation, hoping to resolve the issues before it disrupts fuel supply in Pune.

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