HYDERABAD: The state government on Monday clarified that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel in Telangana, even as panic buying and a sudden surge in demand caused temporary disruptions at several fuel outlets in recent days. Officials said supply chains are being closely monitored to restore normalcy at the earliest.
According to an official situation report, the disruption began after several retail fuel outlets in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh reportedly ran dry, triggering a spillover effect in Telangana’s border districts, particularly Khammam. Similar pressure was observed in Nirmal, which borders Maharashtra.
Authorities said extensive media coverage of fuel shortages in neighbouring regions led to panic among consumers, resulting in an unexpected rush at fuel stations across the state.
Officials also cited speculation over a possible hike in petrol and diesel prices following elections in other states, prompting consumers to top up fuel in advance. This led to a sharp increase in demand and added pressure on retail outlets.
Another contributing factor was the recent revision in diesel pricing for industrial and commercial consumers. The price of industrial and commercial diesel was increased to `150 per litre from April 16, while retail diesel prices remained around `95 per litre. Officials said the wide price gap led some bulk users to shift to retail outlets, further straining regular supply channels.
In response, the Civil Supplies department held urgent teleconferences with state heads of oil marketing companies (OMCs), directing them to review outlet-wise stock positions and ensure immediate replenishment. Special emphasis was placed on maintaining uninterrupted fuel supply for agricultural operations, as paddy procurement and harvesting are at peak levels.
District officials in border areas, including Khammam, Kothagudem, Vikarabad, Nirmal and Jogulamba Gadwal, have been asked to closely monitor fuel availability and report shortages immediately. Authorities were also instructed to prevent out-of-state vehicles from entering Telangana solely to purchase and transport diesel in bulk.
Oil firms told to supply fuel late into night
Fresh data released by the government showed strong stock movement across Telangana on Monday. As of 4 pm, a total of 7,443 kilolitres (kl) of petrol and 11,081 kl of diesel had been dispatched, taking the day’s total to
18,524 kl. Around 1,157 tanker trucks were deployed for transportation.
Of the total supplies, Indian Oil Corporation dispatched 2,555 kl of petrol and 3,928 kl of diesel, Bharat Petroleum supplied 2,146 kl of petrol and 3,114 kl of diesel, and Hindustan Petroleum supplied 2,742 kl of petrol and 4,039 kl of diesel.
Officials said oil companies have been directed to continue operations late into the evening and night to clear pending indents and refill outlets quickly. In rural areas, dealers have been instructed to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply to farmers operating harvesters and other machinery.
The government is also monitoring outlet-level stock positions through automated systems amid concerns that some dealers may be withholding fuel in anticipation of a price hike. OMCs have assured authorities that fuel movement and high-value transactions are under continuous surveillance.
Reiterating that the state has adequate fuel stocks, officials urged the public not to panic or believe rumours circulating on social media. Daily reviews with oil companies have been underway since March 15, and corrective measures are being taken regularly to ensure uninterrupted supply.
Citizens urged to remain calm and avoid panic buying
The Civil Supplies Department appealed to citizens to remain calm and avoid panic buying, advising them to rely only on official information. It also warned against illegal stockpiling of fuel, stating that such actions pose safety risks and would invite strict legal action.
For complaints or to report hoarding, the public can contact the Civil Supplies helpline at 1967.
