The situation, which began on Wednesday, continued through the day, with a heavy rush reported at most major fuel stations in Panaji and other parts of the State. While pumps remained open, the sudden spike in demand disrupted normal operations and led to long waiting times.
Fuel station operators said the demand was far higher than usual. “We refill our pumps based on daily needs, but this panic buying has pushed demand beyond normal levels. Managing the rush has become difficult. By Wednesday night, we had to stop serving customers,” said a city-based petrol pump operator.
In several areas, people were seen buying fuel in bottles and small containers, while others carried small barrels to store petrol, adding to the rush at outlets. Pump attendants said even those with enough fuel were topping up as a precaution.
“People are coming even for Rs 50 or Rs 100 worth of petrol just to make sure their tanks are full,” another operator said.
Meanwhile, the Department of Civil Supplies said there is enough stock of petrol and diesel at oil terminals, along with adequate LPG supply across the State.
Officials said the situation is being closely monitored at the retail, district, state and national levels, and there is no disruption in the supply chain.
“There is no need to worry about the availability of petrol and diesel. Supply will continue as usual without any disruption,” the department said, urging people to avoid unnecessary rush at petrol pumps.
Authorities warned that panic buying is putting avoidable pressure on the distribution system and appealed to the public to stay calm and avoid hoarding fuel.
