Nabarangpur/Daringbadi: A severe shortage of petrol and diesel disrupted normal life across Nabarangpur town and parts of Kandhamal district on Wednesday, triggering long queues and affecting transportation, trade and agriculture.
Out of seven petrol pumps in Nabarangpur, only one was operational, even though stocks of 29,339 litres of petrol and 33,371 litres of diesel were reportedly available across outlets. Some pumps remained shut due to technical issues, including machine and motor breakdowns.
At one outlet, operations were halted despite having 10,000 litres of petrol and 8,000 litres of diesel in stock.
A Civil Supplies official said that fresh supplies—41,700 litres of petrol and 23,800 litres of diesel—were expected to reach five petrol pumps in the town by Wednesday.
To manage the crisis, fuel distribution has been rationed, with motorcycles being provided fuel worth ₹100 and four-wheelers limited to up to 5 litres.
The shortage has hit farmers particularly hard, as diesel is critical for tractors, pump sets and other agricultural equipment. Trading activities have also slowed, with goods transport delayed due to fuel scarcity.
In Kandhamal’s Daringbadi block, the situation is more acute. The area, which depends on just two fuel stations for 25 panchayats, saw both outlets remain shut on Wednesday, causing widespread inconvenience.
Reports indicate a rise in black marketing, with people forced to purchase fuel at inflated prices. The shortage has also disrupted mobility in the hilly and forested region, where residents rely heavily on two-wheelers and autos due to limited bus connectivity.
Farmers in the block have expressed concern over stalled irrigation and agricultural operations.
Meanwhile, a petrol pump owner said a fuel tanker has already been dispatched and is on its way to Daringbadi, raising hopes of early relief.
