Jamshedpur witnessed massive queues at petrol pumps for the second consecutive day as a severe fuel shortage hit the city and the wider Kolhan division, sparking panic buying among motorists. Nearly 40% of fuel stations have run dry, while others have begun rationing supplies. Commuters were forced to visit multiple outlets, only to encounter 'no stock' signs. At several pumps, either petrol or diesel alone was available.
Causes of the Crisis
Kunal Kumar, president of the petrol pump operators association, stated that the crisis deepened due to a combination of supply constraints and panic buying. Pump owners revealed that oil companies recently stopped extending credit, requiring advance cash payments to book fuel stock. This system was introduced after a geopolitical crisis in March, leaving operators to purchase only limited quantities depending on cash flow.
Impact on Daily Life
Mahesh Sonthalia, a pump owner in Sakchi, noted that wholesale supply remained relatively stable, but panic hoarding worsened the shortage. To curb hoarding, several stations capped diesel sales at 200 litres and petrol at 50 litres per transaction. Operators reported that some buyers were attempting to stockpile fuel in drums and containers.
Response from Authorities
SCCI president Manav Kedia said the chamber would take up the matter with oil companies to identify the cause and restore normal supply. Jamshedpur district has over 6.5 lakh registered vehicles, while its 35 petrol pumps sell about 2.3 lakh litres of petrol and 2.8 lakh litres of diesel daily.
About the Author: B Sridhar, based in Jamshedpur, covers the entire Kolhan region including East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, and Seraikela-Kharsawan, reporting on topics such as left wing extremism, city life, urban policies, and other wide-ranging issues.
