Police have been stationed at petrol pumps across Gujarat following public panic over potential fuel shortages. Citizens rushed to fill tanks amid fears of limited supplies.
India imports over 40% of its crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is currently blocked by Iran due to the ongoing US-Israeli conflict. This disruption affects critical fuel shipments, including LPG, LNG, and crude oil.
Long queues at petrol pumps were reported in major cities of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana. Despite the rush, authorities stated that sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel remain available.
Officials emphasized that the deployment of police at petrol pumps is a precautionary measure. It is intended to maintain order and prevent crowding as people try to secure fuel supplies.
Analysts warned that India’s heavy dependence on fuel imports through the Strait of Hormuz makes it vulnerable to regional conflicts. Any extended blockage could affect economic growth, raise inflation, and strain energy availability.
State authorities reassured the public that monitoring is ongoing, and fuel distribution continues without major disruptions. They urged citizens not to panic and to avoid hoarding fuel.
The situation highlights India’s reliance on global fuel supply chains. Experts suggest that diversification of import routes and local storage could reduce future risks.
Meanwhile, fuel retailers are coordinating with authorities to ensure that petrol pumps operate smoothly and supplies reach all major regions. Customers are being advised to follow local instructions and avoid panic buying.
The government continues to assess the impact of the Strait of Hormuz blockade and is exploring alternatives to secure uninterrupted fuel shipments.
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