Mumbai: Nagpur is facing increasing pressure on fuel availability as a combination of restricted supply operations and panic buying disrupts normal distribution, according to a report by The Times of India. While there is no official confirmation of a severe shortage, the situation at petrol pumps has become strained due to logistical bottlenecks and heightened consumer demand.
As reported by TOI, oil depots supplying fuel to the city have reduced their operating hours in recent days. Facilities that earlier functioned late into the night are now closing by evening and remain shut over weekends. This has significantly slowed the turnaround time for tanker refills, delaying replenishment at retail outlets.
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The issue has been compounded by new payment practices requiring advance deposits before fuel can be loaded. Dealers say that delays in processing these payments often result in tankers missing their allocated slots, forcing them to return without supplies.
Amid these constraints, panic buying has intensified the crisis. According to TOI, rumours circulating on social media about a potential fuel shortage triggered a surge in demand, with consumers rushing to fill their tanks. Even those who typically purchase small quantities are now opting for full refills, rapidly depleting stocks at pumps.
Industry representatives, including members of the Federation of Maharashtra Petroleum Dealers Association, have cautioned that such behaviour is worsening the situation. They emphasised that supply disruptions are largely operational and not indicative of a complete shortage.
Officials from oil companies, quoted by TOI, maintained that certain restrictions were introduced to streamline distribution and prevent unnecessary stockpiling by dealers. However, these measures, combined with public anxiety, have contributed to visible stress in the supply chain.
For now, the fuel situation in Nagpur remains under pressure, with authorities and industry stakeholders urging citizens to avoid panic buying and rely on verified information.
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