Sale of diesel on increase in Punjab

 Deficient rain coupled with severe power shortage in Punjab has led to higher consumption of diesel, primarily by the farm sector.

 The sale of diesel has risen by 22 per cent in June and and July as compared to the same period of corresponding period last year. Diesel sale of all public sector oil marketing companies in Punjab jumped to 5.61 lakh tonne in June and July this year from 4.61 lakh tonne in corresponding months of last year. The months of June and July are crucial from the point of view of sowing as this period is ideal for sowing paddy including basmati varieties.  Punjab’s rice has 30 per cent share in the central pool. Rain this monsoon season has been deficient by over 65 per cent, forcing the farmers to depend on diesel-run water extracting pumps to save crops.