Rising price spurs fuel smuggling from Nepal

BAHRAICH: As the fuel prices across the country have touched a historic high, petrol and diesel have been allegedly smuggled from Nepal in Bahraich district. People are either driving their vehicle to the neighbouring county or bringing fuel in cans from there. Even after presence of the Border Security Force (BSF), the people could be seen easily moving across the border. The locals said they were very disappointed with the soaring price of the fuel in the country and to save some money they brought it from Nepal.

“Petrol price in India is high and it is cheap in Nepal. We are forced to bring it from there as we are able to save some ₹12- 13 on one litre,” said a local. Taking cognisance of the same superintendent of police, Sabha Raj said they would take strict action against those involved in the incident. “I have been informed about the matter. We will take strict action against those involved and will also take precautionary measures in the future,” he said.

The fuel price hike for the 16th consecutive day has caused inconvenience among the general public. Petrol is being sold at ₹78.43 per litre in Delhi and ₹86.24 per litre in Mumbai. The cost of diesel per litre has also been increased to ₹69.31 per litre in Delhi and ₹73.79 a litre in Mumbai. Meanwhile, the Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) on Monday announced an increase in the prices of CNG in Delhi and nearby areas as a result of recent appreciation of dollar and revision in proportions of domestic gas allocation.