The North Goa district collector’s imposition of a ban on providing petrol or diesel in cans at fuel stations has caused significant inconvenience to farmers.
Milind Gadgil, a farmer from Sattari, has lodged a complaint via email with the Deputy Collector’s office, demanding a thorough inquiry and immediate relief for farmers.
The district administration has prohibited fuel distribution in cans. However, it is reportedly stated that farmers are exempted from this restriction. Despite this, allegations have been made that a petrol pump in Valpoi is denying fuel supply in cans to farmers.
Farmers claimed that since the government is promoting the use of modern technology to boost agricultural development, many of them have purchased machinery for grass cutting, ploughing, harvesting and other agriculture-related activity.
Most of these machines operate on petrol or diesel and require regular fuel supply. Since it is not feasible to bring such machinery to fuel stations, obtaining fuel in cans has become a necessity for farmers.
Milind Gadgil stated that when he personally visited the petrol pump in Valpoi to purchase petrol in a can, he was denied the facility. He tried to explain to the pump owner the importance of fuel for farmers, but his concerns were ignored.
To ensure justice for farmers and to prevent similar issues for others, he has submitted a formal complaint to authorities in this matter.
When contacted, Gadgil said, “Farmers in Sattari are largely from rural and economically weaker sections. It is not possible for them to bring machinery to fuel stations every time. Agricultural work depends heavily on machines, and fuel is essential for their operation. Denial of fuel in cans is causing major hardship. The authorities must take this complaint seriously.”
He further warned that if the issue is ignored, a formal representation will be submitted to the government, and necessary action will be taken.
Meanwhile, several farmers have supported Gadgil’s complaint, emphasising the need to raise farmers’ voices. They have urged the administration to take the issue seriously, stating that the collector’s decision to prohibit supply of petrol or diesel in cans at fuel stations is proving detrimental to farmers.
