Bhubaneswar: The capital city of Bhubaneswar witnessed widespread panic buying of petrol and diesel on Thursday, with long queues forming at fuel stations amid concerns over a possible shortage triggered by the ongoing US-Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. However, Sanjay Lath, General Secretary of the Utkal Petroleum Dealers Association, firmly dismissed the rumours and assured that adequate stocks of petrol and diesel are available across the city.
Speaking to the media, Lath clarified that adequate quantities of petrol and diesel are available at all major petrol pumps in the city. He stated that even smaller pumps have already purchased sufficient fuel in advance from the companies.
Lath admitted that a few petrol pumps had temporarily run out of stock due to sudden panic buying by customers. He said the panic created a vicious cycle where people rushed to fill up fearing a shortage, which in turn led to fast depletion of fuel at some outlets. However, he assured that the situation has now been brought under control. “From tomorrow onwards, there will be no shortage of fuel. Customers will face no difficulty in getting petrol and diesel,” he said.
He further stated that petrol and diesel sales have increased significantly following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal. He explained that many people misinterpreted the appeal and feared an impending oil crisis, leading them to start hoarding fuel. “As a result, petrol buying has risen manifold in the last three days — almost by 50 per cent. Due to this sudden surge in demand, a few petrol pumps with smaller storage capacity in Bhubaneswar have temporarily run out of stock,” he said.
He added that out of 41 petrol pumps in Bhubaneswar, only 3 to 4 outlets are currently facing stock shortage. The rampant sale of petrol and diesel has also created challenges in the timely transportation and replenishment of fuel.
He explained that fresh supplies are expected to arrive during the night. He strongly asserted that there is neither any fuel crisis nor any panic situation in Bhubaneswar. He appealed to the public not to believe in rumours and avoid unnecessary crowding at petrol pumps. “The situation is completely normal now. Petrol and diesel are available at all pumps. There is no restriction or rationing. Anyone can fill up their vehicle’s tank fully,” he added.
