BPCL and IOCL Quell Fuel Shortage Speculations, Assure Normal Supply
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 6 (NationPress) - Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) oil marketing giants Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) have firmly refuted the circulating rumors regarding the shortage of petrol and diesel in some regions, labeling them as completely unfounded and baseless.
In a statement via its X handle, BPCL reassured the public that India's energy supply is both reliable and resilient, possessing ample petroleum reserves and uninterrupted supply chains.
"There have been allegations about fuel shortages in certain locations that are entirely unfounded," the company asserted.
They emphasized that India's energy infrastructure is sound, and there is no cause for concern regarding fuel availability.
"BPCL is fully operational and committed to ensuring a seamless supply of fuel to all customers," it added.
In parallel, IOCL stated, "Social media claims about petrol and diesel shortages are without merit. India has adequate fuel stocks, and our supply and distribution networks are running smoothly."
"IndianOil is dedicated to providing uninterrupted fuel supply nationwide. We urge citizens to remain calm, avoid congesting fuel stations, and rely solely on official sources for accurate information," it stated on its X handle.
Earlier, government sources indicated that India currently holds approximately 25 days of crude oil reserves and 25 days worth of petroleum products, including shipments en route to the nation's ports. This positions the country in a reasonably comfortable state, despite recent disturbances in the Strait of Hormuz due to the conflict involving Iran.
Oil marketing firms such as Indian Oil, BPCL, and Hindustan Petroleum have ample supplies for several weeks and continue to receive shipments from multiple routes.
The government has also instructed Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to refrain from exporting petroleum products to strengthen buffer stocks.
Strategic storage facilities across the nation contribute to this resilience: Pudur has a capacity of 2.25 million metric tonnes (MMT), Visakhapatnam 1.33 MMT, and Mangaluru 1.5 MMT. An additional coastal facility at Chandikhol is under construction.
Both BPCL and government officials reiterated that there is no reason for public alarm.
India imports over 85 percent of its crude oil, with about half traditionally sourced from Middle Eastern nations.
However, the country has diversified its sources in recent years, increasing imports from Africa, Russia, and the United States, while enhancing energy security through strategic reserves.