Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has catalysed a review of the existing guidelines governing the placement of petrol pumps near residential areas, schools, and hospitals, directing the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) to draft revised safety protocols.
The current regulations prohibit the establishment of fuel stations within 50 metres of any habitation, a measure aimed at ensuring public safety. Speaking at a stakeholder consultation aimed at enhancing operational efficiency within PESO, Minister Goyal underscored the need for updated guidelines that would permit the operation of retail petrol outlets in areas where habitation lies within 30 to 50 metres. This move aligns with efforts to balance safety concerns with the practicalities of urban and suburban development.
Minister Goyal announced significant concessions in licensing fees aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Under the new directive, women entrepreneurs will benefit from an 80% fee reduction, while MSMEs will enjoy a 50% discount on licences issued by PESO. He has initiated the formation of a committee tasked with exploring the feasibility of extending the validity period for various licences, including those for explosives, transportation, and manufacturing, to ten years. Currently, most licences are granted for a decade, except for explosives, which operate under shorter durations.
The proposed reforms come amidst a broader government initiative to streamline regulatory processes and bolster economic activities in sectors closely regulated by PESO. The move to extend licence validity aims to reduce administrative burdens and provide greater stability for businesses operating under stringent safety protocols. Stakeholders from the petroleum, explosives, and fireworks industries have welcomed the initiative, viewing it as a positive step towards fostering a more conducive regulatory environment while maintaining robust safety standards. The outcomes of the stakeholder consultation are expected to inform comprehensive reforms aimed at enhancing regulatory efficiency and promoting sustainable growth in related sectors across India.
