Shimla, June 16: Apple growers across Himachal Pradesh are facing serious difficulties after fuel stations stopped supplying diesel in cans following the Centre's new fuel regulation order issued amid concerns over a possible fuel crunch linked to the Middle East conflict.
Taking up the issue, Anupam Kashyap has urged the state government to seek special relaxation from the Centre for farmers, orchardists, mobile tower operators and other essential services.
In a letter to the Additional Chief Secretary (Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs), Kashyap said Shimla's horticulture-based economy depends heavily on diesel-powered spray pumps, power tillers, mini-tractors and generators.
Since many orchards are located in remote areas, growers cannot take their machinery to petrol pumps for refuelling.
He warned that the restrictions could disrupt spraying schedules, crop management and other farm operations during the peak horticulture season. Similar problems could also affect telecom and infrastructure services.
Seeking relief under the new order, the Deputy Commissioner has requested that genuine farmers and orchardists be allowed to purchase diesel in containers after proper verification and safety checks.
The move comes amid growing concern in the state's apple belt, where orchardists say the fuel curbs are hampering essential operations at a crucial stage of the season.
