“The depot has denied loading fuel citing no direction from its Mumbai-based headquarters,” Sushil Bhattarai, Deputy Executive Director of Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) told Republica.
He was of the opinion that IOC might have refused petroleum products as they are yet to complete technical works for allowing Nepali tankers to enter through Birgunj.
He added that another reason for the refusal might be no formal decision from United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) on lifting border blockade.
“The blockade was broken by locals,” Bhattarai said, “The Raxaul depot might be waiting decision of UDMF, Indian government and its central office.”
He added that it will take some time to manage tankers as those involved in importing fuel from Raxaul to Amlekhgunj and from there to Kathmandu have been deployed at other entry points.
“Although the Raxaul Customs has allowed Nepal tankers to enter India, there is lack of coordination between IOC and NOC,” he accepted,
“We might find out the reason from IOC’s refusal only on Monday or Tuesday.”
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