Aizawl: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Mizoram unit has voiced strong criticism over the continued absence of an oil depot in the state, calling it a serious oversight and a clear sign of neglect toward one of the most remote regions of India. In a recent statement, the party said it was appalled that Mizoram still lacks such a basic and essential facility in 2025, despite repeated fuel shortages that have long disrupted daily life.
AAP Mizoram emphasised the urgency of establishing an oil depot, stating that it was unacceptable for the state to remain dependent on supplies from outside, which are often delayed or disrupted due to poor road conditions, landslides, or strikes. The party condemned the frequent closure of petrol pumps during shortages, which they say severely restricts public access to fuel and violates the rights of ordinary citizens. They criticised what they described as a “VIP culture,” arguing that while fuel is restricted for the general public during crises, it continues to be available for select government departments. According to AAP, fuel should be distributed equally to the public, with the only exceptions being essential services.
The party also directed sharp criticism at the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government, urging it to stop making excuses and take immediate steps to resolve the issue. They insisted that the government must treat the establishment of an oil depot as a top priority and act without further delay.
These concerns echo earlier developments. In November 2024, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma held a meeting with Rajesh Nambiar, Executive Director and Sales Head of Indian Oil AOD, at the Indian Oil Corporation’s State Office in Aizawl. During the meeting, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of quickly selecting a location for the new oil depot so that construction could begin during the working season. In response, Nambiar confirmed that all required documents had already been submitted to Indian Oil’s headquarters and said a final decision on the location was expected soon. He assured that once the site was finalized, the depot could be completed within two years.
Mizoram, despite having 72 petrol pumps, currently lacks a single oil depot—making it particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions. In January 2023, Rajya Sabha MP K. Vanlalvena had appealed to Union Petroleum Secretary Pankaj Jain for the establishment of oil depots in Bairabi and Sihhmui. Even under the previous MNF-led government, former Chief Minister Zoramthanga had reviewed Indian Oil’s proposals for a new depot, but no concrete outcome has been seen to date.
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