Lucknow: Restrictions on the sale of diesel in cans and containers have hit sweet shops, restaurants and small manufacturing units hard with many being forced to revert to traditional coal-fired systems.Traders said the move by petrol pumps to supply fuel directly into vehicle tanks has created operational difficulties, particularly for businesses dependent on diesel-run furnaces and generators. While petrol pump operators have cited compliance with safety and regulatory norms for the move, officials from oil companies said the restrictions are imposed to prevent hoarding and black marketing. “However, we have sufficient stocks to fulfil the demand,” they said. Business owners said many had invested significant amounts in diesel-based furnaces as an alternative during periods of LPG shortages. But, with diesel now unavailable in portable containers, these units have become largely non-functional. “As diesel is not being provided in cans, we are unable to run our furnaces. We shifted from coal to diesel after investing substantial money, but now we are being forced to go back to traditional coal-fired systems,” said Ved Gupta, a sweet shop owner. Restaurant operators and small industrial units have also reported similar issues. Aman Gupta, an eatery owner, stressed: “We are looking for alternative fuel arrangements like coal and firewood.” Traders have urged the authorities to provide clarity on the rules or create an alternative mechanism so that commercial users dependent on diesel for non-vehicular purposes can continue their operations.
