Petrol Crisis: Gujarat Government, IOCL Clarify Fuel Stocks Are Adequate; Ask Public To Ignore Rumours
Long queues snaked outside petrol pumps across several Gujarat cities on Monday after rumours of a fuel shortage began circulating online. By afternoon, the state government, Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), and the Petroleum Dealers Association had put out a joint statement: there is no shortage, and there never was one.
Dealers who shut pumps despite having stock will face action
The state’s Additional Chief Secretary didn’t mince words. Any pump operator who deliberately keeps their station closed while sitting on adequate inventory or otherwise inconveniences the public will face strict legal action. The government, he added, is actively monitoring the situation.
IOCL: Depots and terminals have sufficient stock
IOCL’s State Nodal Officer and Executive Director confirmed that all fuel depots and terminals across Gujarat are stocked. There is no reason for anyone to rush to a pump, he said. Fuel is available and will remain available.
Supply hours extended; ignore social media forwards
The Petroleum Dealers Association president told the public that oil companies have already extended supply hours and increased quantities. He asked people not to act on false messages circulating on social media. There is no fuel problem in Gujarat, he said, and there won’t be one.