Lokmat News Network
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
Baseless rumours that petrol and diesel supplies would be disrupted due to the Israel–Iran conflict created panic across the city. For the second consecutive day, long queues of vehicles were seen at petrol pumps as motorists rushed to fill their tanks out of fear.
Unverified messages circulated widely on social media, further fuelling confusion. On the evening of Dhulivandan, large crowds gathered at petrol pumps across different parts of the city. By 8 pm, long lines had formed at several outlets. Even after petrol pump owners assured customers that fuel was available in sufficient quantity, many refused to leave. As a result, some pumps remained open throughout the night. At the Kranti Chowk petrol pump, fuel stocks were temporarily exhausted, intensifying the rumours. The pump remained closed from 12:30 pm to 2 pm until a tanker arrived and operations resumed. Similar situations were reported in other areas.
No shortage, maintain calm
There is ample fuel stock in the city. Regular supply continues without disruption, and no future shortage is anticipated. Panic driven by rumours can create an artificial scarcity. Citizens must remain calm and rely only on official information, said president of the Petroleum Dealers Association, Aqueel Abbas.
Who is responsible for the rumour market?
Rumours such as “supply will stop”, “tankers are stuck”, and “prices will rise from tomorrow” spread rapidly. Motorists called one another, unintentionally amplifying the panic. Despite no official confirmation, people queued up at pumps, causing traffic congestion, wasted time and unnecessary chaos. The sudden surge in demand led to temporary depletion at a few outlets, which further strengthened the rumours. Minor disputes were also reported at some locations.
Rumours of pump closure trigger rush in Waluj
Due to rumours that petrol pumps would remain closed because of the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region, a large number of motorists gathered from Tuesday night onwards to fill petrol and diesel. However, fuel supply continues smoothly, and citizens should not believe such rumours, said pump operator at Durga Petroleum, Prabhakar Mahalkar.
Caption:
Long queues of vehicles were seen at the petrol pump. On the night of Dhulivandan and from Tuesday morning onwards, similar crowds were witnessed at the petrol pump on Jalna Road.