The government has proposed significant changes to the Petroleum Rules, 2002, including allowing permissions of up to three years for importing and transporting petroleum in ISO tank containers.
The proposed amendments also include a seven-working-day deemed approval mechanism for complete applications, aimed at making the regulatory process more time-bound and streamlined.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued a draft notification on Thursday proposing the Petroleum (Amendment) Rules, 2026.
The proposals are currently at the consultation stage and have not yet become final rules.
Three-Year Permission for ISO Tank Containers
Under the proposed amendments, no person would be permitted to import an ISO tank container containing petroleum, or one intended to be filled with petroleum, without obtaining permission from the Chief Controller or Controller.
The proposal covers petroleum transported through ISO tank containers and seeks to establish a clearer permission framework for such imports and transportation.
Depending on the nature of the permission, applicants could be allowed permissions extending up to three years, subject to the conditions and requirements prescribed under the rules.
Applications to Be Filed Through PESO Portal
The draft proposes that applications for permission would have to be submitted online through the licensing portal of the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).
Applicants would need to provide the technical and safety-related documents specified under the rules. This would allow authorities to assess whether the proposed import or transportation arrangements comply with the applicable safety requirements.
The proposed online process is also expected to bring greater clarity and consistency to the licensing procedure.
Seven-Working-Day Deemed Approval Proposal
One of the key proposed changes is the introduction of a seven-working-day deemed approval mechanism for complete applications.
This means that where an application contains all the required information and documents, the proposed framework would provide a defined timeline for processing it. The deemed approval provision is intended to reduce delays in regulatory clearances while retaining the required safety checks.
The mechanism would apply subject to the conditions and provisions contained in the final rules.
Public Can Submit Objections and Suggestions
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders and members of the public on the draft notification.
The ministry said the feedback will be considered after the expiry of 30 days from the date on which copies of the Gazette notification are made available to the public.
The consultation process will allow industry stakeholders, transporters and other concerned parties to submit their views before the proposed amendments are finalised.
What the Draft Proposes
Permissions of up to three years for specified petroleum import and transportation activities involving ISO tank containers.
Prior permission from the Chief Controller or Controller for importing petroleum-filled or petroleum-intended ISO tank containers.
Online applications through the PESO licensing portal.
Submission of prescribed technical and safety documents.
Seven-working-day deemed approval mechanism for complete applications.
A 30-day period for public objections and suggestions.
The proposed changes are aimed at creating a more streamlined permission system while maintaining regulatory oversight and safety requirements for petroleum transportation.
