In Jharkhand, a big crisis of fuel has hit normal life, and it is said that almost 90% of petrol pump stations in Jamshedpur are out of fuel, while about 25 fuel stations in Ranchi have faced a fuel crisis. This has resulted in panic buying, long queues of cars and increasing concerns among residents and transport operators.
Fuel shortages worsened in the past two days, and reportedly, several petrol pumps in the Kolhan region, including Jamshedpur, were not getting fuel. Several pumps had “No Petrol” or “No Diesel” placards, leading commuters to visit various sections to find petrol/diesel. Several stations in Ranchi also experienced a shortage of tickets, hindering the movement of commuters, working professionals and commercial vehicles.
Local reports indicate that the shortage is connected to oil companies and fuel dealers’ disagreements and problems in the fuel supply chain. Some of the oil companies are said to have recently instituted advance payment requirements for the petrol pump operators rather than the credit-based system that had been in place. This is said to have caused financial difficulties for some dealers, with implications for the regular procurement and supply of fuel.
The shortage was compounded as news of it spread and spurred panic buying. The owners of the vehicles scrambled to the gas pumps, predicting a long shutdown, so that unusually long lines formed at the remaining gas pumps. Photos of packed gas stations and empty ones fueled public fears.
The fuel scarcity has also impacted the transportation service and goods transportation in a section of Jharkhand. The auto-rickshaw drivers, taxi operators and the truck owners voiced concerns about increasing operational challenges. Other delays were reported due to transportation problems in some schools and businesses.
District officials and oil companies are asking residents not to panic, as efforts are underway to get a normal fuel supply back soon. This is being closely monitored to avoid the possibility of petrol/diesel being hoarded or black-marketed. Further fuel tanks are being organized to enhance fuel supply in the affected districts.
Officials say it is a problem that will last only a short time and is not caused by a lack of petroleum products nationwide, but is instead a distribution and payment problem with dealers. But till supplies are completely normal, the citizens of Jamshedpur and Ranchi may suffer inconveniences at petrol pumps.
The situation is being monitored, and it is hoped that authorities will take a closer look at fuel supply arrangements to prevent further such disturbances.
