The oil marketing companies, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (HPCL), together intend to start 144 new petrol outlets in Udupi district.
Addressing mediapersons here on Monday, Miraj Kumar, Sales Officer, Indian Oil, Udupi, said that of the 114 outlets, 73 would be under IOCL, 42 under BPCL and 29 under HPCL. These oil marketing companies had issued advertisements inviting applications from prospective candidates for setting up petrol pumps. The process of dealer selection had been simplified in line with the government’s emphasis on “ease of doing business”.
User-friendly online applications have been introduced. The application forms too have been simplified. Only selected candidates have to produce documents in support of eligibility. The eligibility norms too have been relaxed, he said.
Availability of suitable land at advertised locations/stretches was the most important requirement. Applicants without land too could apply. However, they were expected to offer land when called for. For the first time, computerised “draw of lots/bid opening” would be held under the aegis of an independent government agency to ensure more transparency. All retail outlets would be constructed with the latest technology, including automation.
Interested entrepreneurs could see the detailed advertisements and brochure by logging on to: www.petrol- pumpdealerchayan.in
Retail sales of petrol and diesel were increasing at the rate of about 7% and 9% per annum, respectively in the State. Hence, the PSU oil marketing companies were undertaking retail outlet network expansion. The expansion of retail outlet network was expected to generate employment opportunities in the district.
At present, there are 120 petrol pumps in the district. The expansion of retail outlet network was being undertaken by the oil marketing companies mainly to meet the growing fuel needs and convenience of customers in emerging markets such as upcoming highways, agricultural pockets and industrial hubs, besides meeting the needs of people in rural, remote and far-flung areas, Mr. Kumar said.