Newz Desk, Durgapur : A growing standoff between petrol pump owners and the administration over fuel supply is emerging as a statewide concern in West Bengal ahead of elections, with dealers increasingly refusing to provide fuel on credit for poll-related work.
Fuel dealers across several districts have cited disruptions in supply linked to the ongoing tensions in West Asia, claiming that state-run oil companies are tightening credit lines. This, they say, has forced them to shift to a “cash-first” policy, even for government requirements.
Traditionally, district administrations procure large quantities of diesel on credit during elections to run official vehicles, security deployments, and logistics, settling payments later. However, many pump owners now allege that dues from previous elections, including the last Lok Sabha polls, remain partially unpaid.
“At a time when we ourselves are not getting fuel on credit, it is not viable to continue supplying without advance payment,” said a fuel dealer from Paschim Bardhaman, echoing a sentiment shared by many across the state.
Administrative sources admit that outstanding dues exist in multiple districts, with higher backlogs reported from interior and subdivision-level areas. The issue has been flagged in several district-level meetings between officials and petrol pump associations, where dealers have demanded immediate clearance of arrears along with 100% advance payment for fresh fuel supplies.
Officials point out that election management requires massive fuel consumption. In larger districts, the requirement can run into tens of thousands of litres, making full upfront payment a logistical and financial challenge. “We are examining the situation and have sought guidance from higher authorities,” a senior official said.
The matter has now reached the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal, with districts seeking a uniform directive to handle the impasse.
With both sides firm on their positions, concerns are mounting over possible disruptions in election preparedness if a resolution is not reached soon. The administration is reportedly in talks with dealer associations, even as it explores alternative arrangements to ensure that critical poll duties are not affected.
