Gujarat Government Denies Fuel Shortage, Vows Action on Hoarding and Rumors
In a special discussion at the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, energy and petrochemicals minister Rushikesh Patel addressed concerns over fuel supply, asserting that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or cooking gas in the state. The statement came under Rule 116, focusing on a matter of urgent public importance, as MLAs raised issues about long queues at fuel stations.
Minister Blames Rumors for Panic Buying
Patel clarified that the recent queues at fuel pumps were due to rumors rather than any actual scarcity. "There is no shortage of petrol and diesel in the state. Adequate steps have been taken to ensure continuous supply to petrol pumps," he emphasized, urging citizens not to believe unfounded reports. According to the minister, fuel stations have sold nearly four to five times their normal daily volumes in the past few days, indicating panic buying.
Strict Measures Against Hoarding and Mismanagement
To prevent mismanagement, the government has directed fuel stations to fill petrol and diesel directly into vehicle tanks, with sales in containers permitted only for farmers and mobile towers. Patel warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found hoarding fuel or creating artificial shortages. An FIR has already been lodged against a petrol pump owner in Rajkot for allegedly spreading rumors.
LPG and PNG Supply Remains Stable
Despite global disruptions from the West Asia crisis, Patel assured that the state is well-prepared with LPG and PNG supplies. "The state has an extensive PNG network of nearly 37 lakh domestic consumers, and in the past 12 days, about 12,000 new PNG connections have been registered," he stated. Connections are being prioritized for households, hotels, hospitals, canteens, and educational institutions. No cuts have been made in domestic LPG supply, and police have been instructed to ensure unhindered movement of LPG transport vehicles.
Opposition Raises Concerns Over Ground Realities
Congress MLA Shailesh Parmar countered the government's assurances, claiming that small businesses and those dependent on commercial gas are facing difficulties despite sufficient stock claims. In response, Patel highlighted that the state government is working closely with the Centre to ensure sustained fuel supply and continuous checks are being conducted statewide to curb hoarding.
