KHAR: The political administration of Bajaur Agency has banned sale of petroleum products in commercial centres and bazaars across the region.

Bajaur Agency Assistant Political Agent Asad Sarwar told reporters on Friday that the ban had been slapped to discourage illegal business of petroleum products and prevent fire incidents.

“The main purpose of imposing the ban is to discourage illegal business of petroleum products in bazaars and other commercial centres.

The illegal sale of petrol, high-speed diesel and lubricants in such places has increased for two years,” he said.

The assistant political agent said sellers of petroleum products all over the agency had been told close illegal businesses until tomorrow (Monday).

He said the agency had around 50 shops of petroleum products, which didn’t have proper permit or licence.

Mr Sarwar said a few weeks ago, the administration had called in all sellers of petroleum products but none of them could produce legal documents for business.

He said under the law, no one could sell petrol, high-speed diesel and other petroleum products without permission and therefore, the administration would crack down on lawbreakers.

The assistant political agent said the administration had issued orders to the officials of Bajaur levies force to ensure strict enforcement of the ban on sale of petroleum products in commercial centres and bazaars.

Meanwhile, insiders said the administration had also asked owners of filling stations across the agency to produce licences and other related business documents in the offices of the administration for verification.

They said there were some filling stations, which were operating without licence.

Local dealers of petroleum products opposed the ban, saying it will adversely affect the business and thus, scores of people directly or indirectly associated with it.

They said Bajaur Agency was part of tribal areas and therefore, there was no need for them to obtain licences for business.

They urged the administration to withdraw the ban without delay.