Ludhiana: Concerns over fuel availability surfaced across parts of Punjab on Saturday as a few petrol pumps temporarily shut operations and new restrictions on diesel sales triggered criticism from industry representatives.
In Ludhiana, a petrol pump near Bharat Nagar Chowk remained closed after running out of stock, while a similar situation was reported earlier in Jalandhar before supplies were restored. In Amritsar, a pump in the Rani Ka Bagh area also reported exhaustion of fuel reserves, prompting authorities to display notices for customers.
The developments come amid heightened anxiety linked to the ongoing West Asia tensions, which have led to a surge in demand for petrol and diesel in the state.
Adding to the situation, authorities in Moga have directed petrol pump operators to stop selling diesel in drums and cans. The Department of Food and Civil Supplies said the measure is aimed at preventing hoarding and curbing black-market activity.
However, the directive has drawn sharp criticism from the Petrol Pump Association, which termed the move impractical. Industry representatives argued that diesel is widely used to operate generators, agricultural pumps, and other essential equipment, making it unfeasible for users to transport machinery to fuel stations for refilling. They warned that such restrictions could intensify panic and disrupt daily operations.
In Ludhiana, fuel is currently being dispensed only directly into vehicles, with container-based sales suspended. Similar curbs on diesel filling in drums have also been reported in Chandigarh.
Meanwhile, officials indicated that the situation remains stable in Pathankot and Mohali, where no shortages have been reported so far.
State minister Sanjeev Arora urged residents not to panic, assuring that there is no overall shortage of petrol or diesel. He acknowledged, however, that supply constraints have affected commercial LPG availability, with stocks currently reduced. Authorities said priority is being given to essential services such as hospitals and hostels, while piped gas supply remains unaffected.
Officials continue to monitor the situation closely as demand patterns fluctuate amid global uncertainty.
