Fuel Crisis in Odisha: Rationing and Delays Amidst Adequate Supply Claims
No shortage, yet pumps run dry: Odisha fuel chaos exposes cracks
Business Standard
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Despite claims from the Indian government of sufficient fuel reserves, Odisha is experiencing severe fuel shortages, with long queues and rationed sales across the state. This situation has raised concerns about fuel supply management amid rising global crude prices and local panic buying.
- 01Odisha faces fuel shortages despite government claims of adequate reserves.
- 02Rationing limits petrol purchases to ₹200 for two-wheelers and up to ₹2,000 for cars.
- 03Oil marketing companies are reportedly facing losses of nearly ₹30,000 crore monthly.
- 04Fuel demand in Odisha has surged, with 22% growth in diesel sales compared to the national average.
- 05Delays in tanker loading and punitive restrictions on dealers exacerbate the crisis.
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Odisha is currently facing a significant fuel crisis, with many petrol stations running dry and sales being rationed despite the Indian government's assurances of adequate reserves. Long queues have formed outside fuel stations in cities such as Bhubaneswar, Rourkela, and Cuttack, where consumers report limited availability and confusion over purchasing limits. For instance, two-wheeler owners are restricted to buying only ₹200 worth of petrol, while car owners face caps ranging from ₹500 to ₹2,000 depending on the station's stock. The All Odisha Private Bus Owners' Association has expressed concerns that ongoing fuel shortages could disrupt passenger services. Dealers attribute the crisis to an undeclared supply squeeze by oil marketing companies, which are incurring monthly losses of nearly ₹30,000 crore due to politically sensitive retail prices amid rising global crude costs. Despite the claims of sufficient fuel reserves, many dealers report delays in tanker loading and restrictions on sales, which they believe are part of a strategy to manage dwindling stocks. Interestingly, Odisha has seen a 22% increase in diesel sales recently, driven by vehicles from neighboring states refueling in the region. The situation raises questions about the effectiveness of fuel supply management in the state and the impact of geopolitical factors on local availability.
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The fuel crisis is causing significant inconvenience for commuters and businesses in Odisha, leading to delays and potential service disruptions for public transport.
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