Pune: More than 150 petrol pumps in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad areas have decided not to fill fuel into the vehicles where the drivers or riders were not wearing the masks. The decision was taken in the wake of COVID-19 concerning the safety of the employees at the petrol pump as they have direct contact with the vehicle.

AREAS SEALED
As the number of patients of COVID-19 is increasing in the city and the State, the State government has already sealed the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad area for a week from Monday, April 20 to April 27.

All India Petrol Dealers Association (AIPDA) spokesperson Ali Daruwala said, “The petrol dealers association has decided not to sell petrol and diesel to those who do not wear masks across the country. The staff’s working at petrol pumps come directly in contact with the drivers. At present, the petrol pump owners allow only 1-2 vehicles at a time.”

WEARING FACEMASK MANDATORY
As per the order, vehicles for essential items are allowed to ply on the roads. As many as 52,500 petrol pumps across the country have decided not to sell petrol and diesel if the driver does not wear masks. 

There have been several complaints against the drivers who come to petrol pumps to refuel the vehicle but do not wear masks, as it is mandatory for everyone.

“Thousands of people working on petrol pumps in the country, and if anyone gets infected, it will impact the service besides the large spread of the infection. Thus, the decision was taken, and it will be followed until May 30,” said Daruwala.

FUEL PUMPS TO OPERATE FROM 8 AM TO 2 PM
Petrol dealers association of Pune has decided to give petrol from 8 am to 2 pm till April 27. According to the Vice-President of the association Sagar Rukari, “Fuel is being provided to the vehicles providing essential services in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. However, petrol pumps in rural areas or outside of the city will be open from 7 am to 11 pm.”