Fuel stations in Ernakulam using electronic chips to rig fuel dispensers have something to worry about.
The central zone of the Legal Metrology Department has launched a crackdown on fuel outlets found involved in electronic tampering of fuel dispensers. The move comes close on the heels of the detection of a major racket in Uttar Pradesh involved in cheating customers by installing electronic chips in dispensing machines and pre-calibrated for 5 per cent to 10 per cent deduction in fuel output.
“We came across seven fuel nozzles under our region that dispense petrol or diesel lesser what the customers pay for even though the meter may show otherwise. A special team will conduct surprise inspections in all the petrol outlets to check tinkering of dispensers,” said R. Rammohan, Deputy Controller of Legal Metrology Department, central zone.
The department has asked the dealers concerned not to dispense petrol through these nozzles until the corrections are implemented. The tinkering of dispensers is being done by replacing the original sensor cable in the dispenser with a specially programmed one to increase the pulse rate and thereby show excel fuel delivery. Those found violating the rules also try to alter the initial calibration of the meter and also by tampering with the readings.
Mr. Rammohan said that dealers should ensure that the pump runs for a few minutes before dispensing fuel to ensure that all the units are functioning smoothly. The dispensing pumps should be tested under practical working conditions with the liquid that the instrument is intended to deliver, with the help of check measures of appropriate denominations, he said.
The dispensing pump should deliver correctly at reasonable and uniform speed, which shall be not less than 10 litres per minute.
Officials said that customers should be alert against the tinkering of dispensers and the possibility of dispensing less fuel. They have to check how much fuel has been filled besides getting an idea of the fuel capacity and mileage of their vehicle. They should insist on a printed receipt and ask the pump employees to hold the nozzle at a height so that the residual fuel flows into the vehicle’s fuel tank.
