Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, May 25: Fuel sales across Maharashtra have witnessed a sharp rise amid panic buying triggered by rumours of shortages linked to tensions in the Middle East, prompting the state government to assure citizens that petrol and diesel supplies remain sufficient.
State minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Monday urged people not to believe rumours and said there was no shortage of fuel in the state.
He also directed oil companies to launch awareness campaigns to prevent unnecessary hoarding.
A review meeting on fuel supply was held at Mantralaya in Mumbai and attended by senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Anil Diggikar, State Rationing Controller Chandrakant Dange and representatives of oil companies.
Data presented during the meeting showed a significant spike in fuel sales across Maharashtra.
Petrol sales reportedly increased by around 23 per cent, while diesel sales surged by 52 per cent compared to normal daily consumption levels.
On Monday, petrol consumption in the state reached 21,312 kilolitres against the usual daily average of 17,337 kilolitres. Diesel consumption climbed to 48,928 kilolitres compared to the normal average of 32,252 kilolitres.
Several districts reported a sharp increase in demand. Petrol sales rose by 44 per cent in Akola, 47 per cent in Buldhana, 49 per cent in Jalna and 43 per cent in Wardha.
Diesel demand also increased substantially in multiple districts, with some regions recording rises between 60 per cent and 100 per cent.
In Pune, petrol sales reached 3,864 kilolitres, around 31 per cent above normal levels, while diesel sales rose by 37 per cent to 6,185 kilolitres.
Nashik reported a 26 per cent increase in petrol sales and a 70 per cent jump in diesel consumption. In Thane, petrol demand increased by 23 per cent and diesel sales by 35 per cent.
Some districts witnessed exceptionally high spikes in diesel demand. Nanded recorded a 114 per cent increase, Wardha 105 per cent, Akola 154 per cent and Amravati 85 per cent above normal levels.
Bhujbal warned that rumours were causing panic buying and could create an artificial shortage situation if not controlled.
He instructed officials to closely monitor fuel purchases and take action against hoarding.
The minister also directed oil companies to coordinate with district administrations and local authorities to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply and reassure the public.
The meeting additionally reviewed LPG and PNG availability, with officials confirming that gas distribution across the state remained stable and adequately managed.