Siliguri, 31st January: Construction of a petrol pump in the Pradhan More area of Ward No. 40 under Siliguri Municipal Corporation has been halted by local residents.
The locals have expressed concerns, citing the presence of several houses, a market, and three schools in the vicinity. They fear that the petrol pump will lead to severe traffic congestion and increase the risk of accidents.
Additionally, the locals claim that the construction is being carried out illegally, as the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) has not been obtained from them. Although the administration had initially stopped the work, it resumed after the petrol pump authorities continued their operations, which has further angered the locals. The residents have stated that they will not allow a petrol pump to be established in any populated area.
Ward Councillor Rajesh Prasad Sha mentioned that he had not been informed by the locals about the issue. He urged them to bring their concerns to him, assuring that he would address any issues. He emphasized that no work causing inconvenience to residents would be permitted.
Meanwhile, the landowner’s side clarified that Indian Oil had initiated plans for the petrol pump, with all security measures in place. They assured that the work would be done with all required permissions and would not cause any harm to the residents, but would rather benefit them.