ITAHARI: There is no dearth of petro-products in eastern Tarai but black marketeering of petrol is gaining ground in many Sunsari VDCs along the East-West Highway. Lack of inspection in Haripur, Sripur, Laukahi, Narasingha and Bhokraha, among other VDCs, has encouraged even Paan shops and groceries to sell petrol at an exorbitant price— Rs 100 to 150 per liter — against the market price of Rs 76.25 for the same quantity. Even the roadside shops are selling petrol in water bottles. Their business is flourishing due to the unavailability of petrol pumps in the vicinity. “We have informed the police and local administration about the malpractice but no action has been taken against it,” said Rajesh Yadav of Laukahi. Consumers also lamented the petrol sold in the markets was adulterated too. Locals said the sub-standard fuel had caused problems in motorcycle engines. The practice is prevalent in other VDCs of the district as well. Petrol costs Rs 200 per liter in their village. According to Debendra Shrestha of Koshi Zonal Petroleum Dealer’s Association, selling of petrol except from authentic depots and pumps of Nepal Oil Corporation is illegal. It is the responsibility of Small and Cottage Industry Office to check the malpractice.