Reza Sepahvand, representative of Khorramabad and spokesperson for the Energy Commission of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, reported alarming statistics about gasoline smuggling in Tehran. He announced that approximately two million liters of gasoline are smuggled daily in various ways in this metropolis, and this issue requires more thorough examination and effective measures.
Ways to Combat Gasoline Smuggling
Sepahvand mentioned one of the main methods of gasoline smuggling in his remarks, stating: "The use of free fuel station cards is one of the routes for smuggling." He believes that by transferring fuel quotas to bank cards and monitoring refueling through the banking system, a significant portion of fuel smuggling can be controlled.
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Sepahvand emphasized that previous methods to combat gasoline smuggling have not been effective as they should have been. He said: "Previously, gasoline smuggling had reached about 6 million liters per day, and unfortunately, the various methods employed to combat it have not been responsive."
The Role of Bank Cards in Controlling Smuggling
The representative of Khorramabad further added: "With the implementation of the plan to transfer fuel quotas to bank cards, individuals' refueling through the banking system will be traceable, and they will be compelled to use their bank cards for refueling. Therefore, free fuel station cards will also be collected, and the smuggling route from stations will be completely eliminated."
He also pointed out the unconventional use of smuggled gasoline for various purposes, stating: "In Tehran, part of this smuggling is used for paint-making and spraying, and another part is allocated for villas." This indicates the necessity for more monitoring and oversight over the distribution and consumption of fuel in cities.
In conclusion, Sepahvand emphasized that implementing the plan to transfer fuel cards to bank cards could help prevent part of the fuel smuggling, and it is essential that this plan is pursued seriously.
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