Parliament Question: Measures to Prevent Malpractices at Petrol Pumps

**Executive Summary** This document answers an unstarred question in Lok Sabha regarding measures to prevent malpractices at petrol pumps. The Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas details steps taken by the Union Government, in collaboration with State Governments, to curb manipulation of Electronic Dispensing Meters and ensure accurate fuel delivery. The response addresses inspections, preventative measures, and verification of imported crude oil. The answer was issued on December 4th, 2025. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Preventative Measures & Guidelines:** * Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have implemented Marketing Discipline Guidelines (MDG) to check for irregularities like short delivery at Retail Outlets (ROs). * Action is taken against dealers violating MDG guidelines and dealership agreements. The MDG guidelines are available online. * **Dispensing Unit (DU) Standards:** * To prevent Electronic Dispensing Meter manipulation, OMCs procure and install DUs with accuracy class metering units as per Legal Metrology Rules. * DUs have security features, including audit trails, to ensure correct fuel dispensation and facilitate future inspections. * New dispenser models are extensively tested for software and hardware integrity at the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) before deployment at ROs. * **Inspection and Verification:** * DUs are periodically calibrated and sealed by State Weights and Measure Departments to prevent tampering. * Customers can verify the quantity of dispensed fuel using calibrated 5-liter measures at ROs. * State Legal Metrology authorities conduct surprise inspections and special drives at ROs, with OMCs providing full cooperation. * The volume and quantity of imported crude oil are verified according to the Customs Act, Petroleum Rules, and established marine survey procedures. **Impact Analysis** **Stakeholder:** **Consumers** * **Impact:** Assurance of receiving the correct quantity of fuel when purchasing at retail outlets. * **Action Required:** Utilize the available 5-liter measure to verify the dispensed quantity, and report suspected malpractice to the relevant authorities. **Stakeholder:** **Petroleum Retail Outlets (ROs) / Dealers** * **Impact:** Increased scrutiny and accountability regarding fuel dispensing accuracy and adherence to Marketing Discipline Guidelines. * **Action Required:** Ensure compliance with MDG guidelines, maintain accurate and calibrated dispensing units, and cooperate with inspections by regulatory authorities. **Stakeholder:** **Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs)** * **Impact:** Responsibility for implementing and enforcing MDG, procuring accurate dispensing units, and cooperating with State Legal Metrology Departments. * **Action Required:** Ensure MDG is followed, procure and install DUs meeting accuracy standards, cooperate with State Legal Metrology Departments, and ensure new dispenser models meet testing standards. **Stakeholder: State Legal Metrology Departments** * **Impact:** Responsibility for calibrating, sealing, and monitoring the Dispensing Units in order to eliminate fraud. * **Action Required:** Conduct routine and surprise inspections of ROs to ensure adherence to established requirements, and follow up on any violations found.

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