Rumours of a fuel shortage triggered panic buying across several parts of Gujarat on Monday (March 23) evening, leading to long queues at petrol pumps, traffic congestion, and temporary supply disruptions across Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, Surat and other Gujarat cities. However, officials and fuel dealers, as per a report by The Times of India, have clarified that there is no actual shortage of petrol or diesel in the state.
Chaotic scenes were reported from areas such as Shivranjani, SG Highway, Bodakdev, Thaltej, Gulbai Tekra, and Paldi, where motorists rushed to refill tanks. Many fuel stations imposed temporary rationing, while some ran dry before fresh supplies arrived. “At one point, families were calling relatives, asking them to rush and refill tanks,” a dealer said, as quoted by TOI, describing the sudden surge in demand.
What Caused the Petrol Panic in Ahmedabad
It started after a petrol pump in Ahmedabad’s Shivranjani area displayed a notice stating that petrol and diesel supplies were on the way and services would resume once the tanker arrived. Meanwhile, several fuel stations in Rajkot witnessed heavy rush, driven by misinformation amid concerns linked to the West Asia conflict.
However, according to dealers, the disruption was not due to a shortage but operational changes made by oil marketing companies (OMCs) in fuel supply systems. Oil companies have discontinued the earlier five-day revolving credit system, requiring dealers to make advance payments before receiving fuel leading to cash crunch among pump owners and dealers, which in turn resulted in shortage at a few fuel stations.
“Most pumps maintain about three days of stock. Without credit, some could not replenish in time, and panic buying worsened the situation,” said a dealer, TOI reported. Weekend payment gaps and delays in replenishment further added to the temporary strain.
The Federation of Gujarat Petroleum Dealers Association said the situation has now stabilised. “This shift has caused some delays in supply, but the situation is normal at present, and there is no need for panic,” said its president.
‘No need to panic’
The state government, meanwhile, issued a statement urging people not to panic – “sufficient quantity of petrol and diesel was available in the state. Citizens do not need to panic over rumours. There was no need to hoard fuel,” Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said, adding Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel is himself reviewing the situation every two days to ensure smooth fuel supply.
Indian Oil Corporation also reassured consumers that adequate fuel stocks are available and supply to retail outlets is continuing smoothly.
Authorities have urged citizens to avoid panic buying, stating that unnecessary rushes only strain distribution and create artificial shortages. Motorists are advised to purchase fuel as needed and rely on official updates rather than rumours.
