The Odisha government has imposed a complete ban on the sale, supply, transport, and storage of petrol and diesel in plastic bottles and other unauthorized containers, citing serious risks to public safety, fire hazards, and environmental damage.
In a directive issued by Principal Secretary, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department, Sanjaya Kumar Singh, IAS, all district collectors have been instructed to enforce the ban strictly and take immediate punitive action against violators.
The government noted that despite existing legal provisions under the Petroleum Act, 1934, Petroleum Rules, 2002, Explosives Act, 1884, Motor Spirit and High-Speed Diesel Order, 2005, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, instances of fuel being sold in plastic bottles were reported across several districts.
Enforcement Measures Ordered
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Coordination meetings between district officials, police, civil supplies officers, and oil marketing companies to monitor enforcement.
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Surprise inspections at fuel stations and suspected illegal retail points by enforcement squads.
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Mandatory signboards at all fuel outlets stating in Odia and English:
“Petrol/Diesel shall not be sold in plastic bottles or unauthorized containers. Violators will be prosecuted.”
District collectors must submit monthly action-taken reports detailing inspections, violations, and actions taken. The government has warned that strict punitive measures will be initiated against those found flouting the ban.
