Panic Buying of Fuel Contained, Situation Stable: Uttam

Telangana Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy has stated that the recent panic buying of petrol, diesel, and LPG in the state has been effectively contained, with the overall supply situation now largely under control.

Participating virtually in a high-level meeting convened by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the Minister explained that a brief surge in demand driven by panic buying had caused temporary stress. However, coordinated efforts by the State Government and oil marketing companies have stabilised supplies, which are now meeting demand across most regions. Recent reports also indicate that supplies have been maintained above demand levels despite a spike in consumption.

Uttam Kumar Reddy said the government is closely monitoring the situation and remains in constant coordination with distribution agencies. He assured that any bottlenecks in expanding the Piped Natural Gas network in urban areas would be addressed in consultation with Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy.

On the ground situation, the Minister noted that while domestic LPG supplies remain stable, there is a shortage of commercial LPG in certain pockets. He expressed confidence that the issue could be resolved with increased allocations from the Centre and said procurement related concerns would be taken up with Union Minister Prahlad Joshi.

He further explained that the panic buying witnessed in mid March was triggered by rumours linked to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The State Government responded with continuous reviews, enhanced supply logistics, and strict action against black marketing, helping restore normalcy.

The meeting was attended by Union Ministers Manohar Lal Khattar, Hardeep Singh Puri, and Prahlad Joshi. Discussions focused on ensuring uninterrupted civic services and accelerating the expansion of PNG and CNG infrastructure in urban areas.

Representatives from GHMC were among participants from 14 cities, with the Centre emphasising coordinated efforts to strengthen natural gas networks and enhance urban energy resilience.

‘No Shortage of Petrol, Diesel or LP’

Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy addressed concerns over fuel availability in Telangana, stating that recent anxiety among the public regarding petrol, diesel, and LPG supply is largely driven by misinformation and global developments.

A review meeting on the current status of petrol, diesel, CNG, and LPG supply and availability in Telangana was held at CGO Towers under the chairmanship of Kishan Reddy. The meeting was attended by officials of oil marketing companies and representatives of dealers’ associations.

Later speaking to the media, Kishan Reddy noted that temporary disruptions at a few fuel stations and panic buying led to confusion, but clarified that there is no actual shortage of petroleum products in the state or the country. The Minister explained that the situation is influenced by international geopolitical tensions and global supply dynamics, as India depends partly on imports.

Despite these challenges, the Government of India is ensuring uninterrupted supply by enhancing domestic refining capacity and maintaining steady imports. He emphasized that the Centre is actively engaging with global partners to secure energy needs.

The Union Minister also highlighted increasing fuel demand due to rising vehicle usage and expanded LPG access under welfare schemes. He urged citizens to use fuel responsibly and avoid believing rumours on social media.

Reassuring the public, he confirmed that oil companies have adequate stocks and supplies are running smoothly across Telangana.