Fuel crisis in Imphal: A persistent failure of Governance

Imphal is once again plunged into the throes of a fuel crisis, a situation that has become an all-too-familiar reality for its residents. Out of the 127 petrol outlets in Manipur, only 41 are currently operational, leaving the rest either dry or shut down. As vehicles line up in long queues at the few open outlets, black marketers are seen exploiting the situation, selling petrol illegally at exorbitant prices—up to Rs. 140 per litre. This dire situation, which has been exacerbated by the insecurity on the National Highways, reveals the gross inefficiency and lack of planning by the authorities, who claim that there is adequate fuel but fail to deliver on the ground.
The ongoing fuel shortages in Imphal are not a new phenomenon. For years, the people of Manipur have had to contend with this recurring problem, which disrupts daily life, stifles economic activity, and adds to the already heavy burdens borne by the state’s citizens. Yet, despite the long history of these crises, both the state and central governments seem perpetually unprepared and unable to address the underlying issues. This failure of governance has not only left the people to fend for themselves but has also given rise to a thriving black market that further exploits the vulnerable.
The government’s claim of having an adequate fuel supply rings hollow in the face of the stark reality on the ground. The situation on the National Highways, which are lifelines for the state’s fuel supply, is far from secure. Tanker vehicles, as well as other goods-carrying trucks, face constant threats, making the transportation of essential supplies a perilous task. Even the fuel outlets that the Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution (CAF&PD) department has listed for operation are sometimes closed due to fear of disturbances. This lack of security and the subsequent scarcity of fuel have created a perfect storm for black marketers, who take advantage of the chaos to sell petrol at inflated prices.
This crisis has far-reaching implications that extend beyond just the inconvenience of long queues at petrol stations. The entire economy of Manipur is impacted, with businesses that rely on transportation for the supply of goods being particularly hard hit. The cost of essential items has skyrocketed, leading to inflation that exacerbates the economic hardship faced by the citizens. The ripple effect of the fuel shortage can be felt across various sectors, from healthcare to education, as mobility is severely restricted. Emergency services, including ambulances and essential goods deliveries, are disrupted, putting lives at risk and deepening the sense of frustration and helplessness among the people.
What is most alarming, however, is the apparent lack of a coherent and long-term strategy to address this recurring issue. The government’s response has been reactive rather than proactive, with temporary measures that do little to solve the underlying problems. The lack of a consistent fuel supply chain, coupled with the insecurity on the highways, is a glaring failure on the part of both the state and central governments. Despite repeated assurances and plans to resolve the issue, the situation has only worsened, with no end in sight.
One of the key factors contributing to this crisis is the insecurity on the National Highways, which has been a persistent problem for years. The highways are not just the arteries of Manipur’s economy; they are also the only means through which essential supplies, including fuel, reach the state. The government’s inability to secure these routes is a major factor in the recurring fuel shortages. This insecurity not only threatens the lives of those transporting goods but also disrupts the supply chain, leading to the kind of crisis we are witnessing today.
Moreover, the government’s failure to effectively regulate the fuel market has allowed black marketers to flourish. The exorbitant prices charged by these illegal sellers are a direct result of the scarcity created by the government’s inability to manage the supply chain. This black market not only places an additional financial burden on the already struggling populace but also undermines the credibility of the authorities, who are seen as complicit in allowing such exploitation to continue.
The people of Manipur deserve better. They deserve a government that is capable of planning ahead, of securing the essential supply routes, and of ensuring that basic necessities like fuel are available to all. The recurring fuel shortages are not just an inconvenience; they are a symptom of a deeper malaise in the state’s governance. It is time for both the state and central governments to take this issue seriously and to work together to find a long-term solution. The people of Manipur cannot afford to continue living in a state of perpetual crisis. It is time for decisive action, not just empty promises.