Patna, March 10 (NationPress) A rumor regarding a potential shortage of domestic gas triggered widespread panic on Tuesday in the Sugauli block of East Champaran district in Bihar. This anxiety arose after claims circulated that LPG supplies could be affected due to escalating tensions between Iran and Israel.

As the rumor gained traction, hundreds of locals flocked to the nearby gas agency warehouse, bringing empty cylinders and waiting in lengthy lines for several hours.

This unexpected influx led to chaos outside the warehouse as individuals scrambled to secure gas cylinders, fearing impending supply interruptions.

The owner of the gas agency, Vinod Gupta, urged the community to remain calm and reassured them that there is no actual shortage of LPG.

He confirmed that the warehouse is well-stocked and that regular household deliveries would proceed as usual.

Warehouse staff noted that the rumors led many to visit the facility directly, resulting in overcrowding and complications in dispatching gas trucks to surrounding villages.

In a related issue, residents of Kaimur district have indicated a lack of domestic LPG cylinders.

Local sources report that supplies from Indian Oil Corporation and Hindustan Petroleum have faced disruptions for the past three days.

Frustrated villagers have expressed intentions to block roads in protest if the gas supply is not restored promptly.

The geopolitical climate in West Asia has intensified due to rising tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the US.

Consequently, the price of Brent crude oil has soared above $100 per barrel, at one point approaching $120 per barrel.

Typically, increases in crude oil prices result in higher petrol and diesel costs. However, fuel prices in India have remained stable for the time being.

Experts attribute this stability to several factors, including strong profits reported by state-run oil companies over the past two years, allowing them to absorb the impact of higher crude prices.

The Union government is also making efforts to prevent added inflationary pressures on the public.

Analysts suggest that if the tensions in West Asia de-escalate soon, crude oil prices might decline, potentially keeping fuel prices in India steady.

However, if the conflict persists and crude oil remains between $110–$120 per barrel, petrol and diesel prices in India could see increases in the upcoming months.

For now, officials are advising against panic buying, as LPG supplies are continuing without interruption.