Hyderabad, March 24 (NationPress) Numerous petrol stations in Hyderabad ceased operations on Tuesday, while significant lines formed at several locations that remained open, despite officials asserting that there is no deficit of petrol, diesel, or domestic LPG throughout Telangana.

Signs indicating ‘No Stock’ were displayed at various petrol stations in Uppal, Mallapur, Ghatkesar, Attapur, Katedan, and Chandrayangutta, leading to considerable inconvenience for drivers. Authorities linked this situation to panic buying spurred by unfounded rumors.

At the operational filling stations, extensive queues of cars, autorickshaws, motorcycles, and other vehicles were observed.

At CNG outlets, motorists faced waits of four to five hours for refueling. The overwhelming crowd at fuel stations resulted in traffic congestion in several areas.

In Nampally, autorickshaws formed lengthy lines at a CNG filling station, disrupting traffic flow. According to traffic police, movement is sluggish from Nampally T Junction and Taj Island towards Public Garden Road. Commuters were urged to take alternative routes.

Meanwhile, the Consumer Affairs, Food and Civil Supplies Department of the Government of Telangana unequivocally stated that there is ‘absolutely no shortage of petrol, diesel, or domestic LPG in the state.

The department emphasized that the supply chain from oil refineries to local depots is functioning smoothly, with sufficient stock available to satisfy the regular daily needs of citizens across all districts.

Recent reports about long queues and temporary “No Stock” signs at certain retail petrol outlets are strictly the outcome of sudden, unwarranted panic buying driven by false information. When citizens rush to fill their tanks to maximum capacity, it creates an artificial shortage, even though ample fuel is available at the depots.

The department also noted that recent administrative changes regarding advance payment models by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have resulted in minor, temporary logistical adjustments for some local dealers. This is purely an internal administrative process and is unrelated to supply shortages.

“To manage the situation and ensure fair distribution, the Central and State Governments, in close collaboration with OMCs and the Police Department, are actively overseeing fuel outlets. Strict actions will be enforced against anyone found hoarding fuel, engaging in black-marketing, or illegally redirecting domestic LPG cylinders for commercial use,” it stated.

The government urged all citizens to stay calm and avoid panic buying. “We strongly recommend the public to rely solely on official communications and to refrain from believing or sharing unverified rumors on social media. For any inquiries or to report irregularities, citizens are encouraged to contact the Civil Supplies Toll-Free Helpline: 1967.”

Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar, however, reaffirmed that there is no shortage of fuel or LPG cylinders in Hyderabad.

He posted on X that adequate stocks are available and supply is continuing smoothly throughout the city. He urged citizens not to panic or rush to fuel stations, as such behavior may result in unnecessary congestion and disruption.

“Hyderabad City Police is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with all relevant departments. We urge everyone to remain calm, avoid disseminating or believing rumors, and cooperate with authorities to maintain normalcy,” he stated.