AZE.US
Motorcyclists in Azerbaijan are required to switch off their engines 15 meters – about 49 feet – before reaching a gas station and push their bikes to the fuel pump by hand.
The unusual requirement sparked debate after a video circulated on social media showing a gas station employee instructing a rider to turn off the motorcycle’s engine and move it manually.
Motorcyclists confirmed that the rule is enforced at some gas stations. They complained that pushing a heavy motorcycle for 15 meters can be physically difficult and inconvenient.
Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations clarified that the requirement is not included directly in the country’s fire safety regulations.
Instead, it appears in technical operating rules for gas stations approved by Order No. 15 of the former Ministry of Industry and Energy on March 14, 2008.
Under those regulations, both motorcycles and mopeds must have their engines switched off before approaching a filling station and must be pushed the remaining distance by hand.
Transportation experts say the rule was adopted many years ago and no longer reflects the technical characteristics of modern motorcycles. They have called for the requirement to be reviewed and updated.
Experts also noted that no comparable rule is commonly applied at gas stations in Europe.
AZE.US