The petrol shortage in Hyderabad has triggered widespread panic buying, resulting in long queues at petrol stations across the city. Despite the Telangana government’s assurances that there is no fuel shortage, many petrol pumps have run out of fuel, displaying ‘no stock’ signs.
Panic buying was ignited by rumors circulating on social media about a fuel shortage, leading residents to rush to petrol stations. Reports indicate that some stations have begun rationing fuel sales, limiting purchases to between 150 and 200 litres for two-wheelers.
The daily consumption of petrol in Telangana is approximately 35 lakh litres, while the state has around 3,600 petrol pumps. However, oil companies did not supply fuel over the weekend due to holidays, exacerbating the situation.
According to the Civil Supplies Department, the fuel supply mechanism is functioning normally, and they urge the public not to engage in panic buying. “I urge the public not to engage in panic buying,” stated Stephan Reveendra, IPS, Commissioner of the Civil Supplies Department.
Despite these reassurances, many residents are feeling the impact. A local resident, A Narendra, mentioned, “I came here after seeing posts about a fuel shortage on social media.” Another motorist, Sai Kumar, expressed frustration, saying, “Hundreds of vehicles are here for filling. I am here from almost 25 minutes.”
Temporary stock issues have been reported in areas like Bahadurpura and Mir Alam, where several petrol stations are struggling to meet demand. On a typical day, each pump sells between 10,000 and 12,000 litres of petrol, but on panic buying days, this number can surge to 13,000 litres by 6 PM.
Marri Amarender Reddy, president of the Telangana Petroleum Dealers Association, criticized the oil companies, stating, “When the situation is not right, the oil companies should not impose sudden rules and restrictions that directly affect the common citizens.”
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact reason for the sudden surge in demand, and the timeline for when normal fuel supply will resume is uncertain. The situation continues to develop as authorities monitor the fuel supply closely.
