Naidu Reviews Fuel Shortage as Panic Buying Shuts Down 10% of Petrol Bunks
Demand surges over 50% amid supply concerns; officials report 421 out of 4,510 outlets closed, CM orders immediate steps to ease public hardship
Amaravati: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the situation arising out of petrol and diesel shortage in the State, which has led to the closure of several fuel outlets. Before leaving Mumbai for Amaravati, the Chief Minister held a teleconference with Chief Secretary Sai Prasad and senior officials to assess the ground situation across districts.
Officials informed that out of the total 4,510 petrol bunks in the State, nearly 421 have been shut due to lack of supply. Though fuel supply has been increased by around 10%, panic buying has led to an unprecedented surge in demand, resulting in long queues at several outlets.
Under normal conditions, the State records daily sales of about 6,330 kilolitres of petrol and 9,048 kilolitres of diesel. However, on Saturday alone, sales shot up sharply to 10,345 kilolitres of petrol and 14,156 kilolitres of diesel — an increase of over 50%. Officials said this sudden spike has depleted stocks at many bunks.
Authorities also pointed out that bulk purchases, especially by the aquaculture sector storing fuel in drums, have further strained availability. The Chief Minister directed district collectors and fisheries department officials to immediately implement measures to regulate such purchases and ensure equitable distribution.
Emphasising that the public should not face inconvenience, the Chief Minister instructed officials to take urgent corrective steps and submit a detailed report on the situation and actions taken by the evening.
