Petrol pumps shut in Rajasthan as operators begin two-day strike demanding reduced VAT

As part of the strike, the fuel pump stations will remain shut for the two days, with petroleum dealers neither buying nor selling fuel in the state.

#WATCH | Fuel pumps in Jaipur wear a deserted look as the Rajasthan Petroleum Dealers Association begins its two-day strike, demanding a reduction in value-added tax (VAT) levied on petrol and diesel.

The strike began from 6 am today and will continue till 6 am on March 12. pic.twitter.com/pFtEuvtJ72

— ANI (@ANI) March 10, 2024

“The Rajasthan government has not reduced VAT on petrol and diesel despite the guarantee of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Oil companies have also not increased dealer commissions for the last seven. To press for the demands, a strike has been called,” Association’s President Rajendra Singh Bhati told news agency PTI.

The strike has caused inconvenience to commuters, who could not find petrol or diesel at fuel stations across Jaipur. Pappu Singh, a resident of the city, speaking to ANI, said, “…I have come from afar. This petrol pump is closed too. I am wandering for the last 2 hours.”

Another resident, Suresh Kumar, said, “I have come from Ridhi Sidhi Circle. Petrol is not being supplied anywhere. We are working people and we are facing a lot of issues. This should be resumed at the earliest…All petrol pumps are closed.”