Nimroz traders seek clearance of tankers

ZARANJ (Pajhwok): Hundreds of tankers were stranded at the customs house in southwestern Nimroz province, where traders on Thursday threatened to block roads if clearance of their vehicle continued to be delayed.

Under a draft law approved by the cabinet, the quality of diesel imports should be 062 and that of petrol 092, Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) head Abdullah Kandahari told Pajhwok Afghan News.

But he said the quality of diesel imported by Afghan traders from Iran and Iraq was 050 and petrol 080. High-quality fuel imports were possible only from Kazakhstan but traders lacked access to that country, he explained.  

But he claimed some officials, including lower house members, were trying to ink new oil contracts in attempt to bring imports under their control.

Without sharing details, he said: “We urge the government and the cabinet to review the draft law; otherwise we will be forced to close roads and stop importing goods.”

Haji Abdul Sattar, a trader, said 300 fuel tankers were stopped at the custom premises, pending clearance.  “Our dues are outstanding on the one hand and we have wasted enough time on the other.”

mm/rm/mud