Ahmedabad Police Intensify Patrols Amid Fuel Shortage Rumors
In response to widespread rumors of a fuel shortage, Ahmedabad police have significantly increased their presence and patrols at petrol pumps across the city. This move comes after long queues formed at numerous locations on Monday, causing traffic disruptions and public anxiety.
Police Commissioner Outlines Deployment Strategy
City Police Commissioner G S Malik announced that police personnel would remain stationed outside all petrol pumps following reports of panic among residents. "Our police inspectors, ACPs of respective divisions, and deputy police commissioners of all zones are patrolling outside petrol pumps to manage the crowd," Malik stated. He added that while the situation is expected to normalize soon, patrolling and bandobast arrangements will continue as a precautionary measure.
A senior police officer confirmed that adequate arrangements have been implemented, with officers closely monitoring developments to ensure public order.
Widespread Traffic Disruptions Reported
According to traffic police sources, extensive vehicle queues were observed in multiple areas, including:
- Sarkhej, Makarba, and Vejalpur
- Prahladnagar, Ranip, and Satellite
- Panjrapol, Paldi, and Vasna
- Narol, Danilimda, and Rakhiyal
- Odhav, Chandkheda, and Sabarmati
At some locations, queues stretched up to a kilometer in length, with motorists waiting nearly an hour to refuel their vehicles. The sudden surge in demand significantly disrupted normal traffic flow, with vehicles spilling onto main roads and creating bottlenecks throughout affected areas.
Police Appeal for Calm Amid Panic Buying
Police personnel deployed at petrol pumps were actively appealing to citizens to avoid panic buying. Officers assured the public that fuel stocks remain adequate and that supply chains would not be disrupted despite the rumors circulating throughout the city.
While police officials maintain that the situation remains under control, they have confirmed that higher deployment levels will continue until public anxiety subsides completely. This proactive approach aims to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure smooth operations at fuel stations across Ahmedabad.
