Fuel Price Hikes in Nepal Trigger Cross-Border Fuel Rush in India

Kathmandu. Following the rise in petroleum prices in Nepal, there has been a surge in the number of Nepali vehicles at Indian border areas. This influx has led to fuel shortages for residents in the Indian border regions.

The price of petroleum in Indian border areas is significantly lower than in Nepal. Taking advantage of this price disparity, many Nepalis are crossing the border with their vehicles to refuel.

According to Indian media, SDM Naveen Prasad of Nautanwa, Bihar, has issued strict orders to address local concerns and curb fuel black marketing. It has been mandated that Nepali vehicles will now be provided with limited quantities of fuel in the region.

Under the new rules, two-wheelers will be limited to a maximum of 3 liters, small four-wheelers to 10 liters, and large vehicles to 20 liters of diesel or petrol.

The fuel shortage has also led to rising tensions at the border. Frequent disputes occur between local residents and Nepali drivers due to long waiting times in queues.

Local residents have demanded separate queues for Indian and Nepali vehicles and have called for priority to be given to local consumers.