No need for panic buying, ample stocks available: Oil companies assure public-OxBig News Network

Oil companies on Friday assured the public that India has ample stocks of petrol, diesel and cooking gas LPG, and there is no need for panic buying.

State-owned Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) in separate statements assured of enough stock availability and smooth operations.

They made the statements after social media was flooded with posts and videos showing people queuing at petrol pumps to stock fuel as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated.

“Indian Oil has ample fuel stocks across the country and our supply lines are operating smoothly. There is no need for panic buying, fuel and LPG are readily available at all our outlets,” IOC said in a post on X.

Several towns in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab enforced blackouts after Pakistan’s armed forces launched multiple attacks using drones and other munitions along the entire western border on the intervening night of May 8-9. The Indian Army said the attacks were “effectively repulsed”.

These had led to a fear of escalation in tension and panic buying, which was mostly witnessed in states bordering Pakistan.

“Help us serve you better by staying calm and avoiding unnecessary rush. This will keep our supply lines running seamlessly and ensure uninterrupted fuel access for all,” IOC said.

“All BPCL fuel stations and LPG distributorships across its nationwide network are operating smoothly and are fully equipped to meet the energy needs of consumers. There is no cause for concern or panic buying. Our supply chain operations remain robust and efficient, ensuring uninterrupted supplies. We urge all customers to remain calm. BPCL remains steadfast in its commitment to energy accessibility and reliability,” it said.

HPCL said sufficient fuel and LPG stocks were available across the country.

“Our supply chain is operating seamlessly. There is absolutely no need for panic buying. Fuel and LPG are readily available at all HPCL outlets. Let’s stay calm and avoid unnecessary rush to ensure uninterrupted service for everyone, it said.”