Reports of diesel shortages have surfaced across several districts in Andhra Pradesh over the past 48 hours, with motorists encountering ‘no stock’ boards at multiple fuel outlets and facing restricted purchases amid heightened anxiety triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
While state authorities and oil marketing companies (OMCs) continue to assert that there is no overall shortage of high-speed diesel (HSD) or petrol, ground-level disruptions, including delayed tanker releases and selective rationing by dealers, have created pockets of inconvenience, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
Petroleum dealers in the state, echoing concerns raised by their counterparts in neighbouring Telangana, have pointed to reduced supplies from major OMCs such as HPCL, BPCL, and IOCL. Some outlets in districts like Kurnool have reported up to five out of seven pumps running dry, forcing long queues and limited dispensing.
Traders alleged that refineries are prioritising credit-compliant dealers and imposing informal caps, with heavy vehicles sometimes restricted to 100-300 litres per fill.
Daily diesel consumption in the state has reportedly jumped by over 25% in April compared to the previous year, adding pressure on distribution networks already strained by global crude price volatility and logistical adjustments linked to the Iran-related tensions.
Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar and senior OMC coordinators have repeatedly sought to allay fears. In recent briefings and media interactions, officials emphasised that inventories at petroleum terminals remain sufficient for 15 days or more in many cases, and that supplies of both petrol and diesel are being ramped up to match or exceed demand.
Petrol stocks are said to be running 2.4-8% above normal requirements in recent weeks, while diesel availability is described as stable despite the spike in off-take. The government has been monitoring data twice daily and has directed OMCs to ensure uninterrupted flow, dismissing widespread shortage claims as rumours amplified on social media.
State officials have urged citizens to avoid hoarding and rely on verified updates from OMCs and the civil supplies department. Police in some areas have stepped up monitoring to prevent black-marketing, while dealers call for smoother credit mechanisms and proactive tanker dispatching to prevent future flashpoints. As of now, the situation remains fluid but contained. Most urban pumps continue to function normally, though motorists in affected districts are advised to refuel early and plan trips accordingly. The broader message from both the government and industry is that adequate stocks exist at the wholesale level, and supply chains are operational.