Hyderabad, March 25: Residents in Hyderabad have been rushing to purchase petrol, diesel, and LPG due to rumors of shortages. Long lines formed at petrol pumps as people reacted to these claims. In response, the Telangana government reassured the public on Wednesday that there is no shortage of any petroleum products in the state.
Civil Supplies and Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy held a press conference alongside Civil Supplies Commissioner Stephen Ravindra, stating that there is ample stock for the next three months, and supply is currently exceeding demand.
The minister noted that oil marketing companies, including Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), have significantly increased their supply. On Wednesday, they supplied 17,898 kiloliters against a demand of 17,246 kiloliters, resulting in an excess of approximately 652 kiloliters. The minister explained that daily demand has surged by 25% due to panic buying, but supply has been maintained at 22% above average, ensuring uninterrupted availability.
He emphasized that supply exceeds demand, stating, “We are providing more supply.” An additional buffer stock of 16,000 kiloliters has already been arranged, and 1,200 extra tankers have been deployed to keep fuel stations fully stocked.
The minister clarified that the temporary ‘no stock’ signs at some outlets are due to delays in tanker arrivals, not an actual shortage. The government has also taken strict measures against the use of cans and containers for transporting petrol and diesel, deeming it illegal and dangerous.
He warned that officials are monitoring the situation closely, and the use of containers will not be permitted. Oil marketing companies have been given strict instructions. The minister urged people not to panic buy and stated that all rumors of shortages are unfounded.
He assured that there is no shortage anywhere in Telangana. Referring to panic buying incidents in other major cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Bengaluru, Dharwad, and Belgaum, he reiterated that the supply chains for CNG and LPG are functioning smoothly. The Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) is sufficient for 60-65 days, and ONGC has increased its credit line to ensure uninterrupted supply.
Regarding LPG, the minister confirmed that there is adequate supply of domestic LPG cylinders and petrol/diesel, although there are some issues with commercial LPG cylinders, which the government is addressing with the central authorities.
In a related action, officials have seized 2,952 commercial cylinders that were being misused or filled illegally. The minister stated that there are 596 petrol pumps operating in Hyderabad.
He confirmed that all petrol pumps are open and operational, with inspections conducted at outlets in LB Nagar and Bhairamalguda confirming their full functionality. The Civil Supplies Department staff are reaching every bunk, and a dedicated control room is monitoring supply 24/7 in coordination with legal metrology, police, and civil supplies officials.
Describing the current crowd as “entirely panic-driven,” Uttam Kumar Reddy urged people to stop spreading rumors and avoid hoarding.
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