Bhubaneswar: Amid heavy crowds at petrol outlets in Malkangiri following price rise fear, the Odisha government on Saturday clarified that the state has adequate stocks of fuel and there is no need for the people to worry.
Long queues were seen at petrol pumps in Malkangiri amid fears of a possible rise in diesel and petrol prices following increase in LPG cylinder rates due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The rush has been witnessed since Friday night, with many fearing that petrol and diesel supplies might run out.
As per information, massive crowd gathered at petrol pumps in the district after rumours spread that petrol and diesel stocks were running out amid the ongoing war situation. The situation led to panic buying at some fuel stations in the area.
However, the government assured citizens that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel in the state. People have been urged not to panic over misleading reports circulating in some sections of the media.
Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra said adequate stocks of fuel are available at petrol pumps across the state and tensions in West Asia will not immediately affect supplies in Odisha.
The Minister told reporters that petrol and diesel are sufficiently stocked at various fuel stations and there is no scarcity anywhere in the state. He said rumours about fuel shortages are baseless and have caused unnecessary concern among the public.
Patra also advised vehicle owners to bring their vehicles to petrol pumps and refill fuel as usual instead of trying to store petrol or diesel in large containers or barrels.
The Minister warned that hoarding or black marketing of fuel would not be tolerated and strict action would be taken against anyone found engaging in such illegal practices.
The minister further assured that essential commodities, including food grains, are adequately stocked in the state. He said there is no shortage of rice or other key supplies.
Stating that cooking gas prices may fluctuate from time to time, Patra said the recent increase is temporary. The minister urged people to rely on official information issued by the government and not be misled by rumours or unverified reports.
