TURA: The only petrol pump at Dalu in West Garo Hills has come under criticism from the public after it was found to be providing only Extra Premium brand petrol although residents who prefer the normal brand had opposed it earlier and demanded that the cheaper brand is also made available.
Organizations from the region like the GSU, AYWO, Mothers’ Union, AIJIF and the Garoland State Movement Committee (GSMC) had earlier approached the pump authorities demanding that normal petrol is also made available along with the Extra Premium brand.
The combined organizations had also written a complaint letter to the deputy commissioner following which a team of four officials were deputed to inquire into the matter. The inquiry team had also taken a sample of the petrol being sold to determine its brand.
Under pressure from the organizations as well as the district administration, pump authorities had finally assured that normal petrol would also be made available from the month of October. However, the organizations have claimed that only the Extra Premium brand continues to be sold at the pump and normal petrol is yet to be made available till date.
“We are not saying that we do not need the extra premium brand. But most people prefer the normal brand as it is cheaper and they can afford it. If the pump wants to continue the sale of the higher brand, that is okay but a separate pump should be installed for normal brand as that is what is being demanded by the people,” the Chairman of the GSMC demanded.
