No rationing of fuel, bulk consumers leading to long queues: Govt

NEW DELHI: Dismissing reports of any shortage, govt on Thursday asserted that there was no rationing of petrol and diesel anywhere in the country and attributed long queues at fuel pumps in some parts to bulk diesel consumers, such as industries, shifting to retail outlets due to a price gap of nearly Rs 42 a litre.

Sujata Sharma, joint secretary in petroleum and natural gas ministry, said sales at retail pumps had risen with the onset of the kharif sowing season, while consumers buying from private outlets had shifted to PSU-owned pumps because of price differences in auto fuel. She said a 20-30% increase in sales had been observed at retail pumps in certain parts of the country.

"The ministry has done an analysis...oil marketing companies are monitoring the situation. We have sufficient supplies of fuel, and all steps are being taken to maintain them," Sharma said, while urging the public to avoid panic buying.

The statement came amid reports of long queues at retail pumps in several parts of the country and complaints of some outlets rationing supplies. While high-speed diesel for bulk commercial and industrial consumers is sold at nearly Rs 134 per litre, it is available at about Rs 92 per litre at retail outlets, resulting in diversion. Speculation over a possible rise in fuel prices has also prompted additional purchases.

The three state-owned OMCs - IndianOil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum - also assured consumers there was no shortage of fuel anywhere, though logistics were under pressure because of increased demand.