In a striking development, fuel sales in Gujarat have surged by over 80% due to panic buying, as reported by officials from the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs. This sudden increase in demand has created short-lived pressures on fuel availability at petrol stations, with fuel being sold almost immediately upon arrival. However, officials have clarified that these disruptions are not indicative of a structural supply shortage but rather a result of rapid stock turnover at petrol pumps.
The department is actively monitoring the situation across various districts, identifying petrol pumps facing low or no stock. This ongoing assessment enables a targeted logistical response to address real-time needs across the state. Regular coordination meetings with major oil marketing companies, including Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), have been established to review supply levels almost daily.
- Continuous monitoring — The department collects data from districts to track fuel availability.
- Coordination meetings — Regular discussions with oil companies to ensure smooth supply.
- Grievance redressal mechanism — A system in place to address complaints about fuel shortages.
Officials are also in constant communication with district administration through video conferencing, where District Supply Officers are instructed to oversee petrol and diesel inventories. This proactive approach aims to prevent unauthorized sales or storage of fuel, ensuring that the supply chain remains unimpeded. Daily reports detailing supply data for petrol, diesel, and LPG are compiled to guide operational directives for both district authorities and oil companies.
The state government has reassured the public that there are no restrictions on refueling vehicle tanks. Diesel allocations are still permitted for agricultural use, mobile towers, and infrastructure needs, depending on historical usage patterns. In light of rumors circulating on social media regarding fuel shortages, authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and informed, stating that adequate stocks of petrol and diesel are available, and the overall supply situation in Gujarat remains stable.
