Fuel Queues In Nellore As Rumours Spread; Officials Deny Shortage

Several petrol bunks reportedly capped diesel sales at ₹500 to ₹1,000 per vehicle due to alleged supply constraints from oil companies. A petroleum dealer said supplies were being aligned with last year’s month-wise off-take despite a reported 20 per cent rise in diesel consumption this year, apart from panic buying following the conflict between Iran and the United States.

He also claimed that Direct Industrial Customers (DICs), who usually procure fuel directly from oil companies, were turning to retail outlets after industrial supply prices rose to around ₹150 per litre, compared to nearly ₹98 at regular fuel stations. Petrol, however, remained freely available, he added.

Amid the rush, Nellore district joint collector Venkateswarlu clarified that all 243 fuel outlets in the district had adequate stocks and supply was continuing smoothly. Addressing the media along with DSO Leelarani, he attributed the crowding at some bunks to misinformation and advised consumers to purchase only as required.

He said around 15 outlets were facing temporary issues due to credit constraints, while the rest had sufficient stock.

In Prakasam district, collector P. Rajababu, after reviewing the situation with officials and oil companies, reiterated that fuel stocks were sufficient and rumours of shortage were baseless. He warned of strict action against dealers creating artificial scarcity or indulging in black marketing.

Officials said monitoring had been intensified and inspections were being conducted to prevent irregularities. Consumers were also cautioned against storing fuel in cans or bottles due to safety risks.

Authorities urged the public to rely on official information and avoid panic buying, assuring that supplies remained stable across both districts.