Assam Union Halts Petroleum Loading to Meghalaya Amid Rising Tension

Long queues formed at fuel stations across Shillong on Friday night as residents rushed to purchase petrol and diesel amid fears of a possible disruption in supplies from Assam. The panic buying followed a warning from the North-East Petroleum Mazdoor Union (NEPMZ), which threatened to suspend the transportation of petrol, diesel and LPG into Meghalaya. The union cited safety concerns for Assam-registered vehicles operating in Meghalaya following violence and unrest linked to a Khasi Students' Union protest.

The situation comes after violence during a KSU protest in Shillong on August 19, which was followed by tensions between Assam and Meghalaya. More than 30 tourist vehicles were reportedly vandalised, prompting Assam taxi drivers to block Meghalaya-bound vehicles. A counter-blockade was subsequently reported on the Meghalaya side, further disrupting movement between the neighbouring states and raising concerns over the safety of commercial and passenger vehicles travelling across the border.

NEPMZ general secretary Ramen Deka said the union had already suspended loading and unloading operations in Meghalaya because of the unrest. He said the transportation of petroleum products could also be stopped completely if the situation did not improve. The union has demanded effective measures from the Meghalaya government to protect Assam-registered vehicles, including tourist vehicles, and has called for strict action against those responsible for violence and harassment.

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The union's warning has raised concerns because petroleum products are essential for transport, businesses and households across Meghalaya. Deka said the decision was taken because petrol, diesel and LPG are highly flammable and transporting them under unsafe conditions could put drivers, vehicles and supplies at risk. He maintained that workers were unwilling to continue transporting petroleum products while facing what they described as constant fear and intimidation.

Authorities have also introduced restrictions on the sale and distribution of petrol and diesel in loose quantities in several parts of Meghalaya. Official orders prohibit the sale of fuel in unauthorised containers such as jerry cans, bottles and other vessels. Officials said the restrictions were necessary to prevent illegal hoarding, unregulated storage and potential fire hazards during the prevailing unrest. Violations can invite action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other applicable laws.

The restrictions will remain in force until further orders, although diesel supplies to mobile towers and road construction companies will continue under existing permissions and regulatory requirements. Security has also been strengthened in sensitive areas of Shillong as authorities monitor the situation. With residents already queuing at fuel stations, officials are attempting to prevent panic buying and maintain essential supplies while efforts continue to ease tensions between Assam and Meghalaya.

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