Price Hike Fears After West Bengal Poll Triggering Fuel Rush

Hyderabad: The surge in demand at fuel pumps from Sunday intensified on Monday morning, with officials and industry sources attributing it partly to speculation over a possible increase in fuel prices after the West Bengal Assembly elections conclude on April 29.

The Union government has, however, dismissed speculation of any immediate price revision after the elections.

Civil supplies minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy said expectations of a steep price increase had led to panic buying. “Expectations of a sharp fuel price hike after the West Bengal elections have fuelled panic among consumers in Telangana. Many anticipate a steep upward revision in petrol and diesel prices immediately after the polls, leading to panic buying and a sudden surge in demand.”

He said the state held a teleconference with oil marketing companies and officials to review the situation. “A teleconference was held again on Monday morning with all oil marketing companies (OMCs), state heads, SLC Hyderabad, and head office officials. The situation was reviewed in detail, and all OMCs committed to executing retail outlet indents by this evening,” the minister said.

“They were also advised to extend operations into late evening or night hours to clear pending supplies. In rural areas, where farmers may be unable to bring harvesters and other equipment to fuel stations, dealers have been instructed to ensure doorstep supply to maintain uninterrupted agricultural operations,” Uttam Kumar Reddy said.

Officials said supply coordination measures were being stepped up to meet increased demand and ensure distribution across urban and rural areas.