Truckers' protest: Long queues at petrol pumps, most stations go dry

PTC Web Desk: Protests by truck drivers across India against the new hit-and-run law have sparked panic buying among motorcycle and car owners, leading to lengthy queues forming outside petrol pumps. In Punjab, reports indicate that extended lines were observed at petrol pumps in Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Patiala and Mohali, where people patiently waited for their turn to refuel their vehicles.

The local authorities swiftly intervened to disperse blockades in Ludhiana. Some petrol pumps in Ludhiana district have already depleted their fuel reserves, with station managers suggesting the possibility of displaying a "No Petrol" sign if the situation persists. In Amritsar, tanker drivers ceased operations and parked over a thousand vehicles in a locality housing fuel depots on Monday.

The fuel scarcity has resulted in the shutdown of three petrol pumps in Patiala. The Punjab Petrol Dealers' Association cautioned that numerous fuel stations across the state might face dry spells if the protest continues.

A representative from the Punjab Petrol Pump Association said, "Fuel was delivered to 150 petrol pumps in Punjab last evening. However, due to panic buying, people are purchasing more fuel than necessary, creating difficulties in maintaining adequate stock. If the fuel supply remains disrupted in the upcoming days, it will pose significant challenges."

Meanwhile, an association of petrol pump dealers in the Malwa region expressed concerns that fuel stations in the district might run out of stock by Tuesday if the situation does not normalise.

In some areas of Punjab, protesters obstructed traffic on major highways and engaged in altercations with law enforcement officers. Incidents in Jalandhar involved demonstrators throwing stones at police personnel, leading to injuries among officers.

Similar unrest unfolded in other parts of Punjab, such as Bathinda and Ferozepur, where confrontations between truckers and law enforcement resulted in tense standoffs. Reports indicated clashes on highways near the borders of neighbouring states.

The Root Cause

Under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), which replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, drivers who cause serious road accidents due to negligent driving and flee the scene without informing the authorities could face penalties of up to 10 years in prison or a fine of Rs 7 lakh.

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