Fuel Shortage Panic Grips Gujarat Cities Amid Rumors and Unprecedented Demand
Long queues and temporary closures of fuel pumps were observed across several major cities in Gujarat on Monday, as widespread rumors of petrol and diesel shortages sparked a wave of panic buying among consumers. By the evening, an estimated 15 to 20 petrol pumps operated by public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs) had exhausted their stocks and were forced to shut down operations.
Unprecedented 200% Surge in Fuel Demand
Petroleum dealers reported a dramatic and unprecedented increase in demand, with consumption rising by approximately 200% compared to normal days. A dealer explained, "Total consumption surged to around 2.5 times the usual level, but OMCs are supplying the same quantity as on regular days. This mismatch caused stocks to deplete rapidly, leading to the closure of pumps."
Key Factors Driving the Crisis
The spike in demand is attributed to multiple converging factors. Bulk buyers, including transporters and private travel companies, have completely shifted their fuel purchases to retail outlets. This move followed a sharp increase in diesel prices for bulk buyers, which rose to Rs 112 per litre, compared to the market price of Rs 96 per litre at dealer pumps.
Additionally, the closure of several privately-operated fuel pumps has redirected their customers to OMC-run outlets, further straining the supply chain. Widespread panic buying by individual consumers has exacerbated the situation, creating a vicious cycle of shortages and fear.
Official Statements and Regional Variations
Rajkot district collector Dr. Om Prakash sought to reassure the public, stating, "All petrol pumps in Rajkot district have sufficient stocks, and OMCs are providing adequate supply to the pumps." Rajkot city has 97 petrol pumps, while the district totals 361, with average daily consumption at around 5 lakh litres of petrol and 9 lakh litres of diesel.
In Vadodara, the situation appeared more stable, with most pumps functioning normally on Monday, barring a couple of exceptions. Some outlets experienced rush during peak hours, but no widespread panic buying was reported. Mehul Patel, president of the Federation of Gujarat Petroleum Dealers' Association, noted, "The supply experienced a minor slowdown due to changes in the payment structure, but the majority of pumps were operational and selling fuel on Monday."
Payment Structure Changes and Future Outlook
Patel, who owns a petrol pump in Vadodara, elaborated on the payment issue: "Previously, petrol pump owners paid after receiving fuel deliveries. Now, we must pay in advance to suppliers as companies require liquidity. This new structure is causing slight delays in fuel supply, but the overall situation remains normal, and there is no need for panic."
The combination of rumor-induced panic, structural shifts in bulk buying, and operational changes has created a temporary crisis in Gujarat's fuel supply network. Authorities and industry representatives emphasize that stocks are adequate and urge consumers to avoid hoarding to prevent further disruptions.
