Odisha bans ‘illegal’ sale of petrol in plastic bottles, statewide crackdown from today

Starting Tuesday, enforcement teams across Odisha launched a major crackdown targeting the illegal sale of petrol in plastic bottles and open markets. The move comes after multiple incidents in which inflammable fuels were used in violent crimes, including the FM College self-immolation bid, prompting the state to adopt a strict zero-tolerance policy.

The crackdown was launched after Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra instructed all district Collectors to conduct surprise inspections at petrol pumps and informal vendors.

The use of plastic bottles to sell or carry petrol has now been completely banned. Only licensed sales in safe containers, such as tin cans or glass bottles, will be permitted, and that too strictly for agriculture-related uses like grass cutters and generators.

Illegal Sale to Invite Strict Action

As per the new guidelines, any sale of petrol or diesel without a valid license or in public spaces will now be treated as a serious offence. Enforcement teams will monitor petrol pumps and roadside vendors to ensure compliance.

Minister Patra said, “Those caught selling petrol in plastic bottles or without authorisation will face legal action. Petrol is a highly flammable and dangerous substance. Its misuse has led to multiple tragic incidents in recent months.”

All fuel pump owners have been asked to stop selling fuel in containers that violate safety norms. Buyers may use tin containers of over 20 litres capacity for permitted purposes, provided proper documentation is shown.

However, small unlicensed sales, particularly in congested urban and semi-urban markets, will now attract penal measures.

State Shifts To Action Mode

The Odisha government has formally adopted a zero-tolerance policy against the unsafe handling of flammable fuel.

According to sources, the inspection drive will be intensified in the coming days, and erring suppliers could face cancellation of licenses and criminal proceedings. Authorities have appealed to the public to purchase fuel only from authorised petrol pumps using permitted containers.