Amid rising concerns over a possible fuel shortage due to the escalating war-like situation in West Asia, Maharashtra has recorded a sharp spike in petrol and diesel purchases across the state. Officials said petrol buying has risen by nearly 23 per cent, while diesel sales have jumped by 52 per cent over the past few days.
The impact is clearly visible in Nagpur as well, where long queues have been reported outside several petrol pumps, with residents rushing to stock up on extra fuel amid fears of potential supply disruptions.
According to state-level figures, petrol sales in Nagpur district have increased by around 16 per cent, while diesel demand has gone up by nearly 19 per cent. Sources said diesel consumption has surged particularly among transport operators, industries relying on generators, and consumers from rural areas.
Following the sudden rise in fuel demand, the Maharashtra government has reportedly gone into alert mode. Joint teams of the police and civil supplies departments are preparing to carry out inspections across multiple districts, including Nagpur.
Authorities are expected to conduct surprise checks to curb illegal fuel hoarding, black marketing, and attempts to create artificial shortages in the market.
Officials, however, clarified that there is currently no official fuel shortage either in Nagpur or elsewhere in Maharashtra. They said panic buying appears to have been fuelled largely by social media rumours, global geopolitical tensions, and rising crude oil prices.
The administration has appealed to citizens not to panic or spread rumours and advised people to buy fuel only as per their actual requirement. Authorities maintained that fuel supply across the state remains normal and the situation is completely under control.
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