No Fuel Shortage in Pune, Say Petrol Pump Operators as Panic Buying Surges
Pune, 18th May 2026: Panic buying triggered by fears of a fuel shortage has led to long queues at petrol pumps across Pune and nearby areas, even as petroleum companies and pump operators clarified that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel.
Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation, many vehicle owners rushed to fill their tanks amid fears of possible supply disruptions. The sudden spike in demand has delayed fuel supply from petroleum company depots, particularly the Loni Kalbhor depot, where tankers are reportedly facing long waiting times for refilling.
As a result, fuel tankers are reaching petrol pumps late, causing temporary supply disruptions at several outlets. Some petrol pumps have displayed “Petrol Out of Stock” boards, further adding to public confusion and increasing the rush at fuel stations.
Petrol pump operators said the issue is not due to any actual scarcity of fuel, but because demand has suddenly surged beyond normal levels. Until fuel tankers arrive from depots, some pumps are being forced to temporarily halt sales.
Officials from the Petrol-Diesel Association said the situation is likely to normalise once public confusion subsides and panic buying reduces.
“There is no shortage of petrol or diesel in the city. People should not panic or purchase fuel beyond their actual requirement,” said Dhruv Ruparel, president of the Petrol-Diesel Association.
He added that fuel prices have increased due to rising global crude oil rates, but no prediction can currently be made regarding further price changes.
Petroleum companies and petrol pump operators have appealed to citizens not to believe rumours and assured that fuel supplies remain adequate.
