The central government on Monday stated that the country has adequate stocks of diesel and petrol, eliminating the need for imports to meet domestic demand. Addressing an inter-ministerial press briefing, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, clarified that the shortage of diesel at certain outlets in Andhra Pradesh was triggered by panic buying. She confirmed that the Centre is coordinating with the state government to resolve the issue.
Exceptional Growth in Diesel Sales
Sharma noted an exceptional 30-33% surge in high-speed diesel (HSD) sales in specific areas of Andhra Pradesh, leading to stock shortages at some retail outlets. She assured that the situation is being closely monitored and that stocks would be replenished at all retail outlets by Monday evening. More than 400 filling stations in Andhra Pradesh had temporarily shut down on April 26-27 due to a severe fuel crisis fueled by panic buying and rumors of supply shortages, despite government assurances of ample availability. Long queues of vehicles were observed at several outlets.
Smooth Supply Elsewhere
Sharma emphasized that the supply of diesel and petrol in other parts of the country remains smooth, with no shortages reported. Any reports of unavailability due to panic buying are being addressed on a priority basis. She reiterated, "I want to re-emphasise that we have sufficient stocks of diesel and petrol in the country. We don't see any situation where we would need to import petrol and diesel. I urge people not to believe rumours."
LPG Connections Surrendered
In a related update, over 42,000 PNG consumers have surrendered their LPG connections so far. An assessment is underway to determine how many consumers continue to hold both connections.
Assurances for Uttarakhand
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, after meeting Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, assured uninterrupted energy supplies during the Char Dham Yatra. He posted on X: "We discussed the energy situation and efforts being undertaken to ensure uninterrupted energy supply to Uttarakhand."
