Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Mar 26: Amid circulating rumours of petrol and diesel shortages, a ground check across Mumbai on Wednesday found no signs of panic buying or supply disruption, with fuel stations reporting normal operations.
The Petrol Dealers Association, representing nearly 150 pump owners, confirmed that supply has remained steady, even in the weeks following the ongoing tensions in West Asia.
Fuel station operators said there has been no unusual surge in demand. Sadashiv Serigar, manager of a BP pump, stated that operations continue as usual with uninterrupted supply from Indian Oil Corporation.
He noted that a brief spell of panic earlier this week led to queues at some outlets after nearby pumps faced delayed deliveries. However, the situation normalised quickly.
Another dealer clarified that a temporary shutdown at an HP pump, caused by a technical fault in dispensing equipment, further fuelled confusion, though it had no link to fuel availability.
Motorists across the city also dismissed fears of shortages. Regular commuters said they have not experienced any difficulty in accessing fuel and termed the rumours as baseless.
Dealers reiterated that occasional dry spells at select outlets are typically due to logistical delays, such as late orders over weekends, rather than any systemic supply issue.
Authorities have assured that fuel supply chains remain intact, urging the public not to fall prey to misinformation.