Pune Fuel Panic Triggers Long Queues At Petrol Pumps; Operators Clarify No Shortage
Pune Fuel Panic Triggers Long Queues At Petrol Pumps; Operators Clarify No Shortage
Pune, May 18, 2026: Long queues were witnessed at petrol pumps across Pune and nearby areas after rumours of a possible fuel shortage triggered panic buying among vehicle owners. However, petroleum companies and petrol pump operators have clarified that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel in the city.
The sudden rush reportedly began after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed for fuel conservation, leading many citizens to fear possible supply disruptions and rush to refill their vehicles.
Petrol pump operators said the unusually high demand has temporarily disrupted the normal fuel supply chain. Tankers at the Loni Kalbhor fuel depot are facing extended waiting periods for refilling, causing delays in fuel deliveries to several petrol pumps across Pune.
Due to the delayed arrival of tankers, some fuel stations temporarily displayed “Petrol Out of Stock” signs, further fuelling public concern and increasing crowding at pumps.
Operators clarified that the situation has arisen because of panic buying and not because of any actual shortage of fuel stocks. Some pumps were forced to temporarily halt sales until fresh supplies arrived from depots.
Dhruv Ruparel, president of the Petrol-Diesel Association, appealed to citizens not to panic or purchase fuel beyond their immediate requirements.
“There is no shortage of petrol or diesel in Pune. People should avoid panic buying and not believe rumours,” he said.
Ruparel added that fuel prices have risen due to fluctuations in global crude oil prices, though no prediction can currently be made regarding future rate revisions.
Petroleum companies and fuel station operators have assured citizens that fuel supplies remain adequate and that the situation is expected to normalise once panic buying subsides.
