Mizoram Faces Fuel Shortage as Oil Tanker Drivers Strike

Mizoram is on the brink of a fuel shortage as oil tanker drivers initiated an indefinite strike on Saturday. The strike is a response to the deteriorating condition of the highway connecting the state to the rest of the country. The Sairang-Kawnpui section of NH-6/306 has become unsafe for tanker operations, prompting the Mizoram Oil Tanker Drivers’ Association (MOTDA) to halt services until necessary repairs are completed.

The situation in the state capital, Aizawl, has escalated, with long queues forming at most filling stations since news of the strike emerged. This highway is crucial for Mizoram, serving as the primary route for all supplies, including fuel, entering the state from Assam’s Silchar town.

Saizikpuii, the Director of the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, expressed concerns about the potential fuel shortage if the strike persists. She indicated that the current road conditions are beyond the state government’s control, stating, “The situation is a bit critical as the oil tankers ceased operation owing to poor road conditions.” Although an alternative route exists from Kawnpui in Kolasib district to Aizawl via Durtlang, its narrowness restricts heavy truck traffic.

Mizoram lacks an oil depot and, even when fully stocked, filling stations can only last a few days. Efforts are underway to establish an oil depot, but the immediate focus remains on the highway repair. Saizikpuii noted that while the government has not yet instituted fuel rationing, a standing order is in place to manage distribution during shortages. “Fuel will be distributed to individuals upon the presentation of coupons issued by the government when the crisis hits,” she added, urging the public not to hoard fuel.

The Sairang-Kawnpui section was recently transferred to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) from the state government. Virender Kumar Jakhar, NHIDCL’s Executive Director, confirmed that repair work commenced on July 10, 2023. However, progress has been hindered by heavy traffic and adverse weather conditions.

In a related development, the Mizoram Truck Drivers’ Association (MTDA) has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) at the Aizawl bench of the Gauhati High Court, highlighting the highway’s poor state. The two-judge bench has admitted the PIL for consideration, which challenges the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), the Mizoram government, and the NHIDCL.

As the strike continues, the situation remains precarious for residents relying on fuel supplies, with local authorities closely monitoring developments. The immediate response from the government and repair crews will be crucial in preventing a more extensive crisis in the days to come.