Several petrol pumps in Hyderabad and Telangana shut operations due to stock depletion following panic buying of fuel by consumers. Long queues were witnessed at petrol pumps, while 'no-stock' boards were put up at many outlets due to non-arrival of stocks on time.
The disruption led to a surge in demand at operational fuel stations, with stock at some pumps getting exhausted within a single day. Hundreds of auto rickshaws were seen lined up at fuel stations, affecting public transport availability and leaving passengers stranded.
According to a petrol pump dealer, the crisis began after oil marketing companies introduced stricter payment conditions for fuel supply. Fuel supply to several outlets was disrupted, forcing many pumps to temporarily shut down.
Hyderabad police commissioner V C Sajjannar said the authorities were in constant touch with oil companies to ensure fuel supply across the city was continuing without major interruption.
Police warned against the illegal sale of loose petrol or diesel in bottles and cans, stating that strict legal action would be taken against violators.
Telangana Petroleum Dealers Association president Marri Amarender Reddy clarified that there was no shortage of fuel supplies and supply chains are functioning normally.
State civil supplies minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy held an emergency meeting to take stock of the situation and asserted that stocks are more than adequate for the next three months and supply is currently running well ahead of demand.
