Nagpur District Collector Dr. Vipin Itankar has appealed to citizens not to indulge in panic buying of petrol and diesel, stating that unnecessary stockpiling is disrupting the supply chain. He noted that over the past two to three days, consumers have started purchasing fuel in excess due to fear, which has led to temporary shortages at some petrol pumps.
Speaking at a high-level review meeting held at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hall in the Collectorate, Dr. Itankar emphasized that if citizens restrict their purchases to daily needs, the fuel supply chain will normalize quickly. The meeting was attended by senior officials including Superintendent of Police Harsh Poddar (via video conferencing), Resident Deputy Collector Anup Khande, District Supply Officer Anand Padole, Food Distribution Officer Vinod Kale, along with officials from oil companies and members of the Petrol Pump Dealers Association.
The administration clarified that there is no shortage of fuel in the district. Currently, Nagpur has around 1.05 crore liters of diesel and approximately 35 lakh liters of petrol in stock, which is more than sufficient to meet daily requirements.
However, data presented by the Petrol Pump Dealers Association revealed a sharp spike in consumer purchases. Two-wheeler users, who earlier purchased fuel worth ₹50–₹100, are now buying ₹500–₹800 worth, while four-wheeler users have increased their purchases from ₹300–₹600 to ₹2,000–₹6,000.
Officials reiterated that there is enough fuel to meet the needs of all citizens and urged people to purchase only what is necessary.
The Collector also directed petrol pump operators not to sell fuel in bottles, cans, or any containers other than vehicle tanks. It was observed that in some rural areas, people were attempting to purchase fuel in such forms, which is against regulations.
Dr. Itankar warned that strict action will be taken against individuals spreading misinformation or rumours about fuel shortages on social media. To maintain law and order and prevent panic, police deployment has been increased at petrol pumps where necessary.
Directions to Oil Companies
The Petrol Pump Dealers Association highlighted the sudden surge in demand and urged oil companies to increase supply accordingly. The Collector instructed fuel companies to ensure adequate and timely supply in line with rising demand and to make proper logistical arrangements.
The administration once again appealed to citizens to remain calm and cooperate, assuring that there is no fuel shortage in Nagpur.
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