Agartala, January 8, 2025: The long-awaited Devendra Kanan Fuel Mart has officially opened in Kathalia, Sonamura subdivision under the leadership of Minister Ratan Lal Nath. This new petrol pump under Indian Oil is set to benefit the entire Kathalia block area. The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of several dignitaries including former Union Minister of State for Petroleum and current Assam Rajya Sabha MP Rameshwar Teli, MLA Bindu Debnath, Swapna Das Majumdar, Tafajjal Hossain, Jitendra Majumdar, former Union Minister of State Pratima Bhoumik and Kuntal Mukherjee, General Manager Retail Sales Indian Oil (Assam Oil Division).

In his inaugural speech, Minister Ratan Lal Nath highlighted the significant increase in the number of petrol pumps and CNG stations in the state since 2018. “Before 2018, the state had only 62 petrol pumps. Thanks to the double engine government, we now have 121 petrol pumps and 34 CNG stations, up from just eight. This is the effect of the double engine government. We are addressing needs wherever they arise, without the need for specific directives,” he stated.

Minister Nath also emphasized the broader benefits of the new petrol pump. “Not only will vehicle drivers benefit, but several families will also gain employment opportunities through this petrol pump,” he added.

Speaking at the event, MP Rameshwar Teli noted the historical significance of the increase in petrol pumps since the BJP government came to power. “After India’s independence, there were eighty thousand petrol pumps. The BJP government has added 48 thousand petrol pumps, creating history,” he said. Teli also assured that the opening of the petrol pump was free from political influence and urged the Indian Oil Authority to consider setting up a CNG station based on local demand.

In her vote of thanks, former Union Minister of State Pratima Bhowmik expressed gratitude to the Indian Oil Authority and Rameshwar Teli for addressing the long-standing demands of Kathalia residents. “This petrol pump, located fifteen kilometers from Sonamura and about 17 kilometers from Bora Pather, fulfills a crucial need for our community,” she said. Officials also indicated plans to establish a CNG station at the site in the future.

The inauguration of Devendra Kanan Fuel Mart marks a significant milestone for Kathalia, promising improved access to fuel and new employment opportunities for the local community.