26 May,2026 07:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Petrol demand in Maharashtra has risen by 23 per cent. Representational Pic/File
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said the Maharashtra government has launched an investigation into suspected fuel hoarding and possible diversion of petrol and diesel for unauthorised commercial use following an unusual rise in demand across the state.
Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Fadnavis said authorities were monitoring abnormal increases in fuel consumption despite additional supplies being routed through petrol pumps.
According to the Chief Minister, petrol demand in Maharashtra has risen by 23 per cent above average consumption levels, while diesel demand has jumped by 52 per cent.
He noted that although extra fuel supplies were being distributed through filling stations, an artificial shortage-like situation appeared to be emerging in some areas.
CM Fadnavis highlighted unusually high fuel consumption figures in multiple districts across Maharashtra.
Consumption in Akola reportedly increased by 154 per cent, while Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Beed witnessed increases of more than 70 per cent.
The government suspects that fuel meant for ordinary retail use could be diverted towards commercial activities.
The Chief Minister said the state was attempting to maintain adequate diesel supplies for farmers, but some individuals were allegedly exploiting the situation.
He stated that Maharashtra's fuel supply department and home department would jointly investigate suspected hoarding activities and take necessary action.
According to CM Fadnavis, continued fulfilment of the rising diesel demand despite concerns over shortages suggests that stockpiling may be occurring at certain points in the supply chain.
Addressing concerns over falling onion prices, Fadnavis said the Central government had increased the onion procurement rate by Rs 3.50, taking it to nearly Rs 15 per kilogramme.
He added that large-scale procurement operations had already commenced and that a meeting with the Centre had been scheduled for Wednesday evening to discuss further measures.
CM Fadnavis criticised opposition parties over ongoing protests in Nashik linked to onion prices, accusing them of turning the issue into a political spectacle.
Referring to demonstrations involving road blockades, he remarked that some protests appeared designed primarily for publicity and "photo opportunities".
The Chief Minister also acknowledged that long-term structural solutions would be needed to address recurring volatility in the onion market.
