Heavy crowds were witnessed at several petrol pumps in Malkangiri district of Odisha after rumours about a possible rise in petrol and diesel prices led to panic buying among residents. Long queues formed outside fuel stations as people rushed to fill their vehicles amid fears of supply shortages and further price hikes.
The sudden rush has been reported since Friday night, with many residents worrying that fuel supplies might run out in the coming days. The situation was reportedly triggered after the recent increase in domestic LPG cylinder prices, which raised concerns about a similar hike in petrol and diesel rates.
Rumours Spark Panic Buying
According to local reports, the crowds gathered at petrol pumps across the Malkangiri Sadar subdivision after rumours began circulating that petrol and diesel stocks were depleting due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. These unverified claims led to panic buying at several fuel outlets.
However, authorities have urged citizens not to believe such rumours. Officials clarified that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel and adequate fuel stocks are available across the country.
Supply Route Changes Causing Delays
Experts stated that petrol is typically supplied to Malkangiri from the depot in Jharsuguda. However, due to ongoing maintenance work at the facility, fuel supplies are currently being transported from other locations such as Balasore, Paradip and Jatani.
Since these supply points are located much farther from Malkangiri, transportation time and logistics costs have increased slightly. As a result, minor delays in fuel deliveries have been observed at some petrol pumps in the district.
Officials stressed that the temporary supply adjustment is not linked to global geopolitical tensions or the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Authorities Urge Public Not to Panic
Authorities have reassured residents that the situation is under control and that fuel supplies remain stable. They urged people not to engage in panic buying and to rely only on official information.
Despite temporary delays in restocking due to longer transportation routes, officials said there is no possibility of fuel shortages in the district, and normal supply is expected to continue.
