Sri Vijaya Puram, June 17: The Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) has approached the Andaman and Nicobar Administration and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) seeking an urgent solution to difficulties being faced by registered boat operators in procuring petrol for their vessels following the implementation of new fuel supply regulations.
According to the association, the issue has emerged after the enforcement of the Motor Spirit and High-Speed Diesel (Temporary Regulation of Supply through Retail Outlets) Order, 2026, which restricts the dispensing of fuel into containers at retail fuel outlets.
AATO stated that the restrictions have particularly affected boat operators using petrol-powered outboard motors, many of whom rely on fuel purchased from authorized petrol pumps due to the absence of dedicated marine fuel dispensing facilities in several parts of the Islands, including Baratang.
The association warned that the situation could adversely impact tourism operations, local transportation services and the livelihoods of individuals dependent on the boating sector if a practical solution is not implemented at the earliest.
Baratang remains one of the most visited tourism destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, attracting thousands of visitors annually to attractions such as the Limestone Caves, Mud Volcano and Parrot Island. Access to these destinations depends heavily on boat transportation, making uninterrupted fuel availability crucial for daily tourism activities.
Recognizing the potential impact on the tourism sector, AATO President M. Vinod raised the matter with the Secretary (Civil Supplies), Andaman and Nicobar Administration, seeking measures that would allow genuine operators to continue obtaining fuel required for their operations while complying with the regulatory framework.
Simultaneously, AATO General Secretary Saikat Biswas has taken up the issue with officials of Indian Oil Corporation Limited, highlighting the operational challenges currently being faced by the tourism and boating community.
The association has proposed that registered boat operators be permitted to purchase petrol upon producing valid boat registration certificates and other supporting documents. According to AATO, such a mechanism would ensure that fuel is supplied only to genuine operators while maintaining safeguards intended under the government order.
Tourism stakeholders note that many boats operating in Baratang and other island destinations are equipped with outboard motors that require petrol and depend on fuel being transported from retail outlets to jetties and operational locations. Without an alternative arrangement, operators may face difficulties maintaining regular services.
AATO said it has received a positive response from the concerned authorities and expressed confidence that an appropriate solution would be worked out in the near future.
The association further stated that it remains committed to protecting the interests of tourism stakeholders and ensuring the smooth functioning of tourism-related activities across the Islands. It also assured members that it would continue to monitor developments and keep stakeholders informed regarding any decisions taken by the authorities.
The issue comes at a time when the Islands are preparing for increased tourism activity during the upcoming monsoon season, making uninterrupted transport services particularly important for both visitors and local communities.
