Siliguri, 15th February: The petrol pumps of the entire North Bengal have been shut down following a protest closure called by the North Bengal Petrol Dealers Association. Since early morning of Thursday, the petrol pumps remained closed causing hardships for the citizens.
However, it is to be noted that the North Bengal Petrol Dealers Association had pre-announced the closure of 24 hours from 6 a.m. on February 15 to 16, 6 a.m.
Reportedly, during the last Panchayat elections in the state, fuel was made available from various pumps for the vehicles of the central forces, which resulted in dues of about Rs 19 crore. Despite several proposals made by the owners, various petrol pumps in North Bengal have not received the due amount, which prompted the closure.
Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha elections are ahead. In view of this, the petrol pump owners are concerned regarding the dues and also the upcoming elections.