14 March,2026 07:31 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
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The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Saturday said petrol and diesel are adequately available at fuel stations across the country and advised consumers not to hoard fuel or store it in loose containers due to safety concerns.
In a post on social media platform X, the ministry said there is no shortage of fuel at retail outlets and adequate stocks are being maintained.
"Petrol and diesel are adequately available at retail outlets across the country. Consumers are advised not to take or store fuel in loose or inappropriate containers, as it poses serious safety risks," the ministry said.
The ministry said authorities recently noticed an incident at a petrol pump in Tamil Nadu where fuel was being dispensed into a loose container, which violates safety guidelines.
Following the incident, the petrol pump involved has been suspended and action has been initiated against those responsible.
Officials have also directed all fuel retail outlets and dealers to strictly comply with safety norms while dispensing petrol and diesel.
The ministry warned that any violation of these guidelines would attract strict action.
Earlier, the government had also appealed to citizens to avoid panic buying of petrol, diesel and LPG, stressing that supplies across the country remain stable, reported IANS.
According to officials, oil marketing companies have reported no cases of fuel "dry-outs" at any of the nearly one lakh retail outlets across India.
Authorities said adequate stocks of petrol and diesel are available and supplies are being maintained regularly, reported IANS.
India among world's largest refining hubs
Officials also highlighted that India currently has a refining capacity of around 258 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA), making it the fourth-largest refining hub in the world, reported IANS.
The government said the country's refining capacity ensures sufficient production of petroleum products to meet domestic demand.
The government has also issued a Natural Gas Control Order on March 9 under the Essential Commodities Act to prioritise the supply of natural gas.
Under the order, 100 per cent supply of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) has been ensured without any cuts.
Officials said that while supplies to industrial and commercial consumers are currently being regulated at around 80 per cent, there is no reason for public concern, reported IANS.
"There is no need to panic. Adequate supplies are available and the situation is being closely monitored," a senior ministry official said, reported IANS.
(With inputs from IANS)
