Fuel Demand Doubles In Hyderabad From 30 Lakh Litres To 64 Lakh Litres, Police Commissioner Says No Shortage

Hyderabad: Demand for fuel surged dramatically in Hyderabad this week, with a panic setting in over fuel shortage. According to the Hyderabad Commissioner of Police, VC Sajjanar, 3,024 kilolitres (30.24 lakh litres) of fuel were sold in Hyderabad on Sunday (March 22), and on Monday (March 23), 6,400 kilolitres (64 lakh litres) of fuel were sold in the city.

Sajjanar stated that the sales increased to this level because of panic, stating, "due to people suddenly coming to petrol pumps to fill up their vehicles, there has been a sudden increase in demand and temporary no-stock boards are being seen in some places", asking people not to consider this as a shortage.

He also added that strict action will be taken if petrol or diesel is sold in bottles or cans, apart from warning action against those who spread false news and create panic.

Fearing a shortage, people reportedly filled up even when not immediately needed. This has further increased demand, worsening the situation, resulting in long queues at petrol bunks. Daily commuters, auto drivers, and cab drivers are among the worst affected, especially in areas like Uppal, Mallapur, Ghatkesar, Attapur, Katedan, Chandrayangutta, Begumpet, Ameerpet, Erragadda, Sanathnagar, Kukatpally, LB Nagar, and Vanastalipuram.

Hyderabad District Collector Hari Chandana, speaking along with Sajjanar, stated that they are in constant contact with oil companies and civil supply officials, and informed that a special control room has also been set up for the convenience of the people. "Currently, fuel supply is going smoothly in 186 fuel stations in Hyderabad district, and people are requested not to increase the crowd at the stations out of unnecessary anxiety," she stated, adding, "All precautions have been taken to ensure that essential services are not disrupted and the machinery at the field level is alert."

She appealed to the people to observe the facts and cooperate.

Sajjanar also urged people not to believe in rumours and not to rush to fill fuel unnecessarily, stating that 'there are enough reserves for 60 days'.