Fuel crisis deepens in Andhra Pradesh; CM Chandrababu orders urgent intervention

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

A growing fuel shortage across parts of Andhra Pradesh has begun to severely disrupt daily life and key economic activities, prompting Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to convene an emergency review and issue immediate directives to officials.

Petrol bunks in several districts, including the undivided Godavari region, Kurnool, and Nandyal, have been displaying “No Stock” boards, leaving motorists, farmers, and small businesses struggling. The crisis has been particularly acute in rural belts, where diesel is critical for agricultural operations.

With the rabi harvest season underway, the shortage has hit farmers hard. Harvesting machines, which require up to 100-160 litres of diesel per day, have reportedly been left idle in fields due to lack of supply. Aqua farmers are facing a similar crisis, as aerators used to maintain oxygen levels in ponds are unable to function without diesel. Compounding the issue, increased summer power cuts have intensified reliance on diesel-based systems.

Officials attribute the shortage to a combination of global and local factors. Rising crude oil prices amid geopolitical tensions in West Asia have led oil marketing companies to tighten supplies. Additionally, the withdrawal of credit facilities for fuel dealers and suspension of supply to outlets with pending dues have further aggravated the situation.

In response, the Chief Minister directed the Chief Secretary and Civil Supplies officials to resolve the crisis on priority. He instructed authorities to gather real-time data on fuel availability, coordinate with district collectors, and engage directly with oil companies and petrol pump owners to restore normal supply. He also held discussions with petroleum dealers’ associations to understand ground realities.

The state government has urged petrol bunk operators to report stock shortages immediately via the toll-free number 1967, enabling faster intervention.

Meanwhile, reports suggest rationing at several outlets, with limits imposed on diesel sales. In some regions, motorists are travelling to neighbouring Telangana districts to refuel. Allegations have also surfaced that certain dealers are hoarding fuel, though authorities have yet to confirm these claims.

As queues grow longer and uncertainty persists, the government’s ability to stabilise supply chains in the coming days will be crucial in preventing further disruption to agriculture, transport, and rural livelihoods.