Continuous Supply Being Sent to Dry-Out Pumps, Public Urged Not to Buy Fuel in Panic

Raipur/ The Chhattisgarh Government has clarified that sufficient stock of petrol and diesel is available across the state and there is no need for public concern. Food Secretary Smt Reena Babasaheb Kangale stated that oil depots in the state are receiving regular fuel supplies as required. At the same time, the distribution system is being continuously monitored to ensure “smooth and uninterrupted availability” of fuel.

According to the Food Secretary, 2,516 petrol and diesel pumps are currently operational across Chhattisgarh. The state presently has 45,474 kilolitres of petrol and 84,654 kilolitres of diesel in stock. Against this, the daily requirement stands at 3,635 kilolitres of petrol and 5,873 kilolitres of diesel. Today alone, various oil depots in the state received 6,551 kilolitres of petrol and 4,760 kilolitres of diesel, further strengthening supply availability.

She informed that Raipur city has 326 petrol and diesel pumps, out of which 35 are temporarily dry-out. Similarly, Bilaspur city has 156 pumps, of which 13 are currently dry-out. Continuous supply is being dispatched from oil company depots to restore stock at all such outlets at the earliest. Over the past two days, temporary dry-outs at a few fuel stations triggered rumours and a sense of panic among consumers, leading to an “unexpected surge in fuel consumption” across several areas. This sudden spike in demand created an artificial shortage-like situation at certain locations.

Mrs Kangale reiterated that the state has adequate reserves of both petrol and diesel and that the supply chain remains fully normal. She appealed to citizens not to be influenced by any rumours or misinformation and to avoid panic buying or unnecessary fuel hoarding. The state government and oil companies are jointly monitoring the situation, with “constant coordination and preparedness,” to ensure regular supply to all fuel stations.