Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Warns Against Fuel Hoarding, Urges Public To Avoid Panic Buying

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday issued a strong warning against fuel hoarding and panic buying amid rising petrol and diesel prices and growing concerns over possible supply disruptions across the state. He said the government is closely monitoring the situation and will not tolerate any attempt to create artificial scarcity in fuel markets. The remarks came at a time when reports of anxiety among consumers and intermittent disruptions at fuel stations have been circulating in several districts.

The Chief Minister stated that the recent rise in petrol and diesel prices, including four consecutive hikes, is largely linked to ongoing global geopolitical and market pressures affecting crude oil supply chains. He urged citizens not to fall for rumours regarding an imminent fuel shortage, stressing that panic-driven purchases only worsen the situation. According to him, maintaining calm and responsible consumption is essential to ensure steady distribution across all regions of Maharashtra.

Fadnavis also warned that strict legal and administrative action would be taken against individuals, dealers, or intermediaries found hoarding fuel or engaging in black marketing practices. He directed all District Collectors to intensify monitoring of petrol pumps and storage facilities, ensuring transparent and need-based distribution. Special focus has been placed on preventing shortages in rural and agricultural areas where diesel demand remains high for farming activities during the sowing season.

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The Chief Minister acknowledged that some isolated incidents of tension and supply concerns have been reported in parts of the state, but clarified that the overall situation is under control. He said the government is actively working with oil companies, district administrations, and transport networks to ensure smooth fuel supply. Fadnavis also cautioned against misinformation on social media, stating that rumours have contributed significantly to public anxiety in certain pockets.

Meanwhile, reports from Sambhajinagar district indicated temporary closures of several petrol pumps, with varying figures reported regarding the scale of the disruption. While some accounts suggested over 300 outlets were affected, petrol pump associations clarified that only a limited number of stations had halted operations due to supply fluctuations. Authorities have since stepped up coordination with distributors to stabilise supplies and prevent further disruption.

Opposition leaders, including NCP(SP) MLA Rohit Pawar, criticised the state government, claiming that farmers and citizens were facing difficulties due to diesel shortages at a critical time in the agricultural cycle. He alleged that farm operations had been impacted due to fuel unavailability in some regions. In response, the state government maintained that it is taking all necessary steps to ensure uninterrupted fuel availability and that the situation remains under continuous review at senior administrative levels.

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