THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A customer arriving at a petrol pump is entitled not only to toilet facilities but also to five other services free of cost. If these services are not provided satisfactorily and free of charge, a complaint can be filed, and legal action will follow immediately.

In a recent case, C.L. Jayakumari, a teacher from Ezhamkulam in Pathanamthitta, filed a complaint with the Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission after being denied access to the toilet at a petrol pump in Payyoli, Kozhikode. As a result, a fine of Rs 1.65 lakh was imposed on the pump owner.

On Thursday, officials from the Consumer Affairs Department held a meeting and decided to carry out widespread inspections at petrol pumps. Consumer Commissioner Muhammad Shafeeq will coordinate the inspections.

It is not enough just to have toilets; owners are responsible for keeping them clean and ensuring water availability. Customers can lodge a complaint even if they are dissatisfied with the cleanliness of the toilet.

Other services:

1. Clean drinking water should be available.
2. In the event of a road accident, if there is a nearby petrol pump, a first aid kit can be requested.
3. If there is a suspicion of less fuel quantity or adulteration, the customer has the right to request filter and quantity checks.
4. Air filling for vehicle tires must be provided free of charge. The pump owner should appoint a staff member for this, and the vehicle owner may offer a tip if they wish.
5. In case of emergency, customers should be able to call the police or relatives from the pump. A landline or mobile phone facility must be available.

“Customers must receive the services they are legally entitled to at petrol pumps. If not, action will be taken.”
– Ajith Kumar, Secretary, Consumer Affairs Department