Pradhan orders probe into UP petrol pump scam

New Delhi, May 1 (IANS) Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday ordered an inspection of all petrol pumps in Uttar Pradesh and random checks on others across the rest of the country following the case of petrol pumps in the state cheating customers using chips.

"The petroleum ministry has issued an order for inspection of all petrol pumps in UP and random checks in other states to check tampering in delivery units," Pradhan told reporters here.

"We have initiated action against field officers. Strictest action will be taken against the culprit retail outlets in accordance with the marketing discipline guidelines," he said.

Last week, the Uttar Pradesh police unearthed petrol pumps using chips, costing around Rs 3,000 each, to remote control the outflow from machines and give customers nearly 10 per cent less petrol or diesel for every litre paid for.

Seven petrol pumps have been sealed following raids, and about 14 people are being questioned.

Pradhan said the state's weights and measures department must ensure that filling machines are not tampered with, but state-run oil marketing companies (OMCs) should be equally responsible and share the blame for any malpractice.

Officials of state-run oil companies will accompany teams from the UP police special task force (STF), the weights and measure department and the food and civil supply department for inspection of all retail outlets, the Minister added.