Petrol Shortage Across Telangana, No Stock Boards Raise Concern

• Petrol shortage Telangana no stock boards seen
• Financial year end causes petrol shortage
• Dealers face cash rules for fuel supply

Fuel stations across Telangana are witnessing an unusual situation as no stock boards appear at several petrol bunks, leaving vehicle owners worried and scrambling for fuel.

While authorities insist there is no actual shortage of fuel in the country, the ground reality tells a different story. Experts say the issue is not due to supply disruption but because of financial constraints faced by dealers at the end of the financial year.

With March 31 marking the close of the financial year, oil companies have tightened their financial policies. Dealers are now required to make advance payments before receiving fresh stock, replacing earlier credit-based supply systems. At the same time, banks have reduced short term lending to clear pending dues, creating a cash crunch for fuel dealers.

Unable to arrange immediate funds, many dealers have stopped placing new fuel orders, resulting in empty stocks at several petrol bunks. The situation is further complicated as private fuel companies have reduced sales, putting additional pressure on government operated outlets.

Global factors have also played a minor role. Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have delayed crude oil shipments, with transport timelines increasing significantly. Rising insurance costs for shipping have added to the burden, though experts say these are not the primary reasons for the current shortage.

The central government has reassured the public that fuel reserves remain stable, with stocks sufficient for up to 60 to 90 days. Refineries are operating at full capacity, and officials expect the situation to improve soon.

Authorities have urged people not to panic or hoard fuel, stating that the shortage is temporary. With the financial year closing adjustments expected to ease, normal supply is likely to resume from the first week of April.