Assam: Amid reports of panic buying and long lines at fuel stations, the Chief Secretary of Assam has clarified that the state has a significant surplus of petrol and diesel, and urged people not to hoard unnecessarily.
In a statement shared on the official X handle, the Chief Secretary said that Assam uses only 27% of the total fuel produced at its four refineries, including Numaligarh Refinery Limited, leaving a 73% surplus.
According to the data released, the average monthly production of petrol (MS) in the state is 168 thousand metric tons, while diesel (HSD) production is around 403 thousand metric tons.
In comparison, the state’s average monthly consumption is significantly lower, with petrol consumption at 63 thousand metric tons and diesel at 92 thousand metric tons. This results in a monthly surplus of approximately 105,000 metric tons of petrol and 311,000 metric tons of diesel.
Despite the good supply situation, there have been reports of panic buying in some parts of the state, putting pressure on retail outlets. The Chief Secretary cautioned people against purchasing fuel in open containers and warned that such actions could lead to severe legal consequences.
Officials have stated that police will file criminal cases under the Indian Penal Code, specifically Section 285, which deals with negligent handling of fire or combustible materials. In addition, violations of these rules may also include illegal storage without a license under the Petroleum Act, 1934, and unsafe storage under the Explosives Act, 1884.
The administration has reiterated that there is no fuel shortage in Assam and urged people to avoid panic buying, assuring them that there is sufficient supply throughout the state.
