Petrol pumps across Manipur’s capital, Imphal, remained shut on Saturday following a bomb attack at a fuel station in Bishnupur district on Thursday evening, triggering serious safety concerns among petroleum dealers and leading to an acute fuel crisis in the valley.
The Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity (MPDF) announced an indefinite shutdown of all petrol pumps in the valley areas with effect from Friday evening, protesting the attack and demanding enhanced security arrangements for fuel outlets and dealers.
In a letter earlier addressed to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the MPDF expressed grave concern over the explosion at the BPCL petrol pump, M/s Elidas Fuel Station, located along the Moirang–Kumbi Road in Bishnupur district. The blast reportedly occurred at around 8:10 pm on Thursday.
Describing the incident as part of a disturbing trend, the fraternity stated that this was the second attack targeting petroleum dealers in a short span of time. “Recently, one of the dealers was targeted on December 6, 2025, and the matter was duly brought to the notice of your good office,” the letter noted.
Meanwhile, the shutdown has resulted in the rapid proliferation of black-market fuel sales across Imphal, with petrol being openly sold along roadsides and in residential areas. Vendors are reportedly charging prices ranging from ₹120 to ₹200 per litre, far above the official rates.
The illegal sale of fuel has caused severe hardship to commuters and essential service providers, while also raising concerns over public safety and exploitation amid the ongoing crisis.
