Jalna (Maharashtra), Mar 26 (PTI) Panic buying triggered by social media rumours led to long queues and rush at petrol pumps in Maharashtra’s Jalna district on Thursday, even as authorities assured that there is no shortage of petrol and diesel.
The sudden spike in demand created a temporary mismatch between supply and consumption, officials said.
According to the District Supply Office, adequate stock of petrol and diesel is available in the district. However, to tackle the situation, authorities have capped the amount of fuel that can be sold per vehicle. Two-wheelers can be refuelled with petrol worth up to Rs 200, while three- and four-wheelers can be refuelled with fuel worth Rs 2,000 at a time.
Sale of fuel in cans or bottles has been banned. Priority will be given to ambulances and essential service vehicles.
Several petrol pumps reportedly ran dry on Wednesday, while long queues were seen outside LPG agencies. Farmers with tractors were seen waiting for hours at petrol pumps.
Jalna District Petrol Association member Inderchand Tawarawala said the district has sufficient petrol stock to last nearly a month.
However, hotels and restaurants have been affected due to irregular LPG supply. District Hotel Association secretary Mohan Ingle said agencies are struggling to meet demand despite assurances of partial allocation.
Several establishments have switched to electric alternatives and reduced menu options. PTI COR KRK
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