Citizens urged not to panic; Ample petrol and diesel stock available in Nagpur district
Nagpur: District Collector Dr Vipin Itankar has appealed to citizens not to purchase petrol and diesel beyond their daily requirement, stressing that adequate fuel stock is available across the district and there is no reason to panic.
Addressing a high-level review meeting at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hall in the Collectorate on Wednesday, Dr Itankar observed that over the past two to three days, consumers have been buying fuel in excess due to fear and uncertainty. This sudden surge in demand has temporarily disrupted the supply chain, leading to “No Petrol” signboards being displayed at some filling stations.
He expressed confidence that the supply chain would stabilise if citizens refrain from panic buying and limit purchases to their actual needs.
The review meeting was attended by Superintendent of Police Harsh Poddar via video conferencing, along with Resident Deputy Collector Anup Khande, District Supply Officer Anand Padole, Food Distribution Officer Vinod Kale, senior officials from fuel companies, and office-bearers of the Petrol Pump Dealers’ Association.
Sufficient Stock in District
Officials informed that nearly 1.05 crore litres of diesel and around 35 lakh litres of petrol are currently available in Nagpur district — quantities exceeding the district’s routine consumption levels.
Data presented by the Petrol Pump Dealers’ Association revealed a sharp spike in individual purchases. Earlier, two-wheeler owners typically refuelled petrol worth Rs 50 to Rs 100 per day. However, over the last few days, the amount has risen to Rs 500 to Rs 800. Similarly, four-wheeler owners who earlier purchased fuel worth Rs 300 to Rs 600 per visit are now filling between Rs 2,000 and Rs 6,000.
Authorities reiterated that sufficient stock is available to meet the needs of every citizen and urged the public to avoid hoarding.
Fuel Not to Be Given in Cans or Bottles
The Collector also clarified that petrol pumps must not dispense fuel in cans, bottles, or any containers other than vehicle fuel tanks. Reports from rural areas indicated that customers were demanding petrol in such containers. Dr Itankar emphasised that supplying fuel in this manner is against regulations and strictly prohibited.
Strict Action Against Rumour-Mongers
The administration has taken serious note of misleading messages and rumours circulating on social media regarding fuel shortage. The Collector warned that stringent action will be initiated against those spreading false information. Police deployment has been arranged at petrol pumps as required to maintain order.
Call for Increased Supply from Companies
During the meeting, the Dealers’ Association requested fuel companies to enhance supply in line with the increased demand. Dr Itankar directed the companies to plan and ensure additional supply to maintain smooth distribution across the district.
Reiterating that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel in Nagpur, the district administration appealed to citizens to remain calm and cooperate to restore normalcy in fuel distribution.
