- The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas urged consumers not to purchase or store loose fuel in containers due to safety risks.
- Authorities said petrol and diesel stocks remain adequate across India despite panic buying.
- Long queues were reported at fuel stations in Tamil Nadu, driven by rumours linked to West Asia t
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued an advisory on Saturday in the interest of public welfare to avoid purchasing loose fuel in containers. People are queuing in front of petrol pump stations amid concerns over a shortage of fuel supply due to the Middle East tensions.
The ministry posted on its X handle, "Petrol and diesel are adequately available at retail outlets across the country. Consumers are advised not to take or store fuel in loose or inappropriate containers, as it poses serious safety risks."
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"Retail outlets have been instructed to strictly follow safety guidelines while dispensing fuel, and any violation will invite strict action," the statement added.
The action follows an incident in Tamil Nadu where a consumer was caught buying loose fuel in a container from a station. The petrol pump allegedly dispensed petrol inadequately, failing to follow rules and regulations.
The circular further stated that the concerned petrol pump has been suspended due to violation of the rules, and appropriate action has been taken against the operators.
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The ministry warned all retailers and dealers in the country should strictly follow safety guidelines while dispensing fuel, and alerted operators that any violation would invite strict action.
Panic Over Potential Fuel Scarcity
Fears over supply disruption due to Strait of Hormuz closure amid the Middle East tensions have led to increased demand in anticipation of a shortage.
Long queues are forming at petrol pumps across several Indian cities, especially in the stare of Tamil Nadu, due to panic buying sparked by rumours of a fuel shortage linked to the conflict.
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