Panic Buying At Shillong Fuel Pumps As Union Threatens Supply Halt

Amid heightened tensions following the August 19 violence during a Khasi Students' Union (KSU) protest in Meghalaya's Shillong, long queues were seen outside fuel stations across the city on Friday night, with several outlets reportedly running dry. The unrest had triggered a blockade of Meghalaya-bound vehicles by Assam taxi drivers after more than 30 tourist vehicles were vandalised. This was followed by a counter-blockade on the Meghalaya side, further straining relations between the two neighbouring states. Adding to concerns, the North-East Petroleum Mazdoor Union (NEPMZ) on Friday threatened to suspend the transportation of petrol, diesel and LPG from Assam to Meghalaya, citing safety concerns for Assam-registered vehicles operating in the state. The union said the suspension would remain in place until the Meghalaya government takes effective measures to ensure the safety of Assam-registered vehicles, including tourist vehicles. It also urged Meghalaya authorities to restore normalcy and take strict action against those responsible for the violence and harassment.