Auto LPG crisis spills over into petrol and diesel supply chain, motorists face shortages as HPCL and BPCL outlets run dry
Bengaluru: A fresh fuel crisis is unfolding in Bengaluru as petrol and diesel shortages have been reported across several outlets of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), triggering concern among motorists already grappling with the ongoing auto LPG disruption.
Over the past two days, fuel stations operated by HPCL and BPCL have reportedly been running low on petrol and diesel stocks, leading to long queues and uncertainty across the city. The situation has intensified as private fuel stations such as Shell plc, Jio-bp, and Nayara Energy have increased prices, pushing more consumers toward public sector outlets.
Acute Shortage at Key Fuel Stations
According to fuel station operators, the stock crisis is particularly severe at HPCL and BPCL outlets, with several pumps struggling to meet daily demand. Motorists have been forced to queue for extended hours, raising fears of a prolonged disruption.
Despite advance payments amounting to lakhs of rupees, many dealers claim that fuel supplies from depots have not been dispatched on time, severely affecting availability at retail outlets.
Spillover Effect of Auto LPG Crisis
The current shortage comes on the heels of a recent auto LPG price surge in Bengaluru, which had already disrupted transport and daily commuting. The rising cost of commercial cylinders has also triggered concerns about increasing living expenses, including PG accommodation rents.
With LPG shortages fresh in public memory, residents fear a repeat scenario, this time involving petrol and diesel, as demand surges and supply remains inconsistent.
Supply Chain Disruptions Under Scrutiny
While fuel availability remains relatively stable at outlets operated by Indian Oil Corporation Limited, the situation continues to worsen at HPCL and BPCL pumps. Some stations have reported receiving limited supplies, but insufficient stock levels are failing to meet the growing demand.
Fuel station owners have expressed concern over the lack of clear communication from oil companies, further adding to the confusion and anxiety among both dealers and consumers.
“Even after advance payments, supplies are delayed. We are unable to meet demand, and customers are growing increasingly frustrated.”
Rising Anxiety Among Motorists
The ongoing disruption has left motorists anxious, with fears that fuel queues similar to the LPG crisis could soon become widespread across Bengaluru. Authorities and oil companies are yet to issue a detailed clarification on the reasons behind the supply bottleneck.
