Manipur Blockade: Fuel Runs Out

Imphal, Jun 4 : The Manipur government's effort in countering the economic blockade by regulating and rationing of fuel and essential commodities seems to be running out of steam as the blockade entered the 51st day on Friday.

Imphal city is not new to fuel crisis but this summer has been unusual. People have been queuing up overnight for just a few litres of petrol or diesel.

The two highways into Manipur have been choked by protesting Naga student groups demanding greater autonomy.

After a month's wait, the government started airlifting supplies and forced open the blockade for a day to move in a convoy of trucks carrying essential commodities. That is now running out.  

The government has also been regulating the sale of fuel. Two wheelers are allotted 5 litres and four wheelers are eligible to get 10 litres. The supply, however, is irregular and inadequate.

But the black market sale is thriving. Petrol and diesel are available for anywhere between 100 to 150 rupees.

"I'm buying fuel for hundred and fifty rupees so I am charging my passengers that much. If it's a hundred rupees fare then I charge two hundred," said Anand, an autorickshaw driver.

Schools have reopened after school buses are being given additional fuel. But other commuters have been hard hit.

Along with fuel, commodity prices are also shooting up in the state with no breakthrough in the crisis in sight.