Rs 200 for petrol, Rs 2,000 for LPG: the economics of strife-torn Manipur

Months of agitation and protests in Manipur over the issue of inner-line permit and the restriction on the entry of outsiders in the state has thrown the people into another crisis - that of basic needs. There is an acute shortage of petrol, diesel and other such products, because of which the prices have catapulted.

According to an NDTV report, petrol is being sold at around Rs 170-200 and the price of diesel has shot up to Rs 120-150.

This situation has worsened because both the national highways to Imphal, capital of Manipur have been blocked, disconnecting the state from rest of the country. A massive landslide has also blocked the Nagaland route from last two weeks. Also, a bridge on the Assam route collapsed, adding to the woes of the people.

As per media reports, petrol pumps are only being opened for a restricted time and police is deployed at the stations to maintain security. Another report by local newspapers claims that the fuel is being sold in the black market at extremely high prices.

Reportedly, hoarders and black marketeers are selling LPG cylinders at Rs 2,000 and the chances of more shortage might just lead to further increase in the prices.

The state government says that they are trying hard to nab the black marketeers and also to restore the movement of traffic on all the routes.