Raipur polls boost ATF demand

The consumption of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) in Chhattisgarh is likely to increase as the election campaign builds up. VVIPs are likely to fly into the state for election campaigning. Political parties are hiring 10 helicopters for use by leaders.

Chhattisgarh polling for 39 assembly constituencies will be held on November 14, while voting at the remaining 51 constituencies will be held on November 20. Campaigning will peak in the 39 assembly segments soon and both Congress and BJP have many VVIPs lined up.

VVIPs due include Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Leader of Opposition Lal Krishna Advani and BJP President Rajnath Singh with chief ministers of states and film stars.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) supplies ATF in Raipur airport. At present five choppers were taking off from here, including four hired by political parties and one used by the police.

Average daily consumption of ATF increased to 6000-7000 litres as against the normal consumption of less than 1000 litres. In the next couple of days, the consumption is likely to reach 20000 litres as parties are hiring 10 more helicopters for the final phase of campaign, the officials said.