In a decisive move, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu convened an emergency teleconference on Sunday, slamming the brakes on a burgeoning fuel crisis. District collectors received marching orders to devise and implement action plans tackling petrol and diesel shortages that have crippled hundreds of pumps statewide.
Panic gripped the region after supply chain glitches sparked frenzied buying, shuttering 421 fuel stations out of 4,510. During the meeting with top bureaucrats including Chief Secretary Sai Prasad, officials revealed Saturday’s allocations: 10,345 kl petrol and 14,156 kl diesel. But consumer frenzy pushed sales to unprecedented levels—8,489 kl petrol and 10,556 kl diesel against routine figures of 6,330 kl and 9,048 kl.
The surge stemmed from public apprehension over shortages, compounded by bulk drum buys from coastal sectors. Naidu didn’t mince words, mandating collectors to coordinate across departments and submit progress reports by Sunday evening. This rapid response underscores the administration’s commitment to stabilizing essentials amid logistical hurdles.
Echoing reassurances, Minister Nadendla Manohar declared ample stocks statewide, blaming isolated pump closures on transient supply issues. He warned of zero tolerance for hoarders and profiteers. With queues snaking around stations, Andhra’s leadership is mobilizing to bridge the gap, prioritizing public trust and seamless mobility.
