The government has imposed a three-day ban on sales of fuel to private vehicles. Beginning Thursday, fuel supplies will be limited to emergency services, public transport, security forces, food supply and medical services.

A joint meeting of Home Ministry, Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC), Commerce Ministry and security agencies on Wednesday took the decision amid the worsening fuel crisis.   The government has come up with the move after the petroleum shortage gripped the country following the ‘unofficial blockade’ imposed by India on vital supplies.

“We will not be selling fuel to the private vehicles, both two- and four-wheelers,” said NOC spokesperson Deepak Baral.

 According to the NOC, trucks, tippers and mini-trucks will also be not eligible to receive the petroleum. “However, the restriction will not be applicable to vehicles used for food supplies, medical services, media and public transportation,” Baral said, adding that the fuel distribution will be as per the quota fixed by the government.

The government began rationing fuel supplies on Monday.

Under the provision, owner of a two-wheeler will be provided three litres of petrol per week; a private four-wheeler will get 10 litres per week; public vehicles are being provided 10-30 litres every alternate day.

“The provision will be revised depending on the supply situation,” said Baral.