The energy supply chain in Manipur faces a severe crisis as fuel retailers have announced a total strike. In a drastic move, petrol pumps to shut indefinitely after bomb attack targeted a filling station in the Moirang area of Bishnupur district. The Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity (MPDF) declared the shutdown to protest the lack of security for their staff and property. This decision follows a violent incident on Thursday night, which has sent shockwaves through the local business community.
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Petrol Pumps to Shut Indefinitely After Bomb Attack at Moirang Thana Leikai
The primary catalyst for the shutdown was a late-night explosion at Ms Elidas Fuel Station, located at Moirang Thana Leikai along the Moirang-Kumbi road. On January 8, 2026, at approximately 8:10 PM, two unidentified miscreants on a two-wheeler hurled a bomb at the station. The device exploded adjacent to the dispensing machine, causing significant damage to the concrete foundation and the pump unit.
Fortunately, officials reported no casualties during the blast. However, the audacity of the attack has terrified workers. Since petrol pumps to shut indefinitely after bomb attack, residents in Bishnupur and neighboring valley districts are now rushing to secure whatever fuel remains. The MPDF stated that they can no longer operate under the constant threat of violence and extortion.
Escalating Threats and Extortion Demands
This explosion does not represent an isolated event. For several months, fuel dealers in Manipur have complained about escalating extortion demands from various armed groups. The fraternity noted that while the government fixes fuel prices, illegal organizations pressure them to pay “unbearable” amounts.
The shift from verbal threats to physical violence has pushed the dealers to a breaking point. Consequently, the MPDF spokesperson highlighted several critical issues:
- Dealers have faced repeated kidnappings and intimidation.
- Staff members discovered hand grenades at multiple pumps over the last few weeks.
- Despite submitting a memorandum to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla in December, dealers have seen no concrete security measures.
- Refusal to comply with illegal demands leads to bomb attacks, while compliance risks prosecution under the National Security Act (NSA).
Impact on Daily Life and Essential Services
As the petrol pumps to shut indefinitely after bomb attack, the local economy expects a devastating impact. Public transport operators, school van drivers, and essential service providers are already feeling the pinch. By Friday morning, long queues formed at the few stations that had not yet closed their gates.
Furthermore, the black market for fuel is already starting to thrive. Reports indicate that roadside vendors are selling petrol for as high as ₹180 to ₹200 per litre. This artificial scarcity affects the most economically vulnerable sections of society. Therefore, the state government faces intense pressure to provide a security guarantee to the dealers to restore normalcy.
Security Forces Launch Investigation
Following the blast at Moirang Thana Leikai, police and forensic experts arrived at the scene to collect evidence. Authorities have registered a case at the Moirang Police Station. Security forces have also increased patrolling along the Moirang-Kumbi road and established additional checkpoints.
The Youth Union Club and local “Meira Paibis” (women torch-bearers) staged a sit-in protest on Friday to condemn the attack. They demanded the immediate arrest of the two individuals seen on the two-wheeler in CCTV footage. Until the perpetrators face justice, the MPDF remains firm on its decision to keep the pumps closed.
The situation in Bishnupur remains tense as the fuel crisis deepens. Since the petrol pumps to shut indefinitely after bomb attack, the responsibility now lies with the administration. Without a comprehensive security plan and a crackdown on extortion, the state’s mobility could come to a complete standstill. The citizens of Manipur hope for a swift resolution that ensures the safety of public service establishments and the uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.
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