Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection Minister Chhagan Bhujbal of Maharashtra stated that the state has sufficient petrol and diesel stocks, dispelling rumors of fuel scarcity. Despite this assurance, panic buying has surged due to misinformation in certain areas, leading to a significant increase in fuel sales.
Minister Bhujbal urged the public to refrain from panic buying and unnecessary hoarding during a review meeting on fuel distribution. Notable attendees at the meeting included Additional Chief Secretary Anil Diggikar, State Rationing Controller Chandrakant Dange, and senior officials from various oil companies.
Recent district-wise data revealed a notable rise in daily fuel consumption across Maharashtra. Petrol sales have seen a 23% increase, while diesel sales have surged by 52%. Specific districts like Buldhana, Jalna, Akola, and Wardha reported significant spikes in petrol sales ranging from 43% to 49%.
During the meeting, Minister Bhujbal directed oil companies to conduct public awareness campaigns at local levels to assure citizens of the state’s ample fuel reserves and smooth supply chain operations. He emphasized the need to counter rumors of fuel shortages fueled by isolated incidents that could lead to artificial scarcity.
