A sudden wave of panic buying has disrupted fuel supply across Andhra Pradesh, leading to the temporary closure of hundreds of petrol stations and prompting the state government to step in with urgent measures.

According to official reports, around 421 petrol bunks out of more than 4,500 outlets in the state have been forced to shut operations temporarily due to rapid depletion of fuel stocks. The unusual spike in demand has created long queues at functioning fuel stations, with motorists rushing to fill up tanks amid fears of shortage.

The situation escalated after rumours and uncertainty triggered panic among the public, resulting in an unexpected surge in petrol and diesel purchases. In many locations, fuel stations witnessed sales far beyond their normal daily capacity within a short span of time, making it difficult for supplies to keep pace.

Under normal conditions, Andhra Pradesh records steady fuel consumption levels. However, the recent surge in demand has disrupted the balance between supply and distribution, causing logistical pressure on oil marketing companies and dealers. As a result, several outlets, especially in smaller towns and semi-urban areas, were left with no stock to serve customers.

In response to the developing situation, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu conducted a detailed review with senior officials and district authorities. He assessed the district-wise fuel availability, supply chain status, and reasons behind the sudden shortage-like situation in certain regions.

During the review, officials informed the Chief Minister that while overall fuel supply had not been significantly reduced, panic-driven purchasing behaviour had created artificial pressure on the system. They noted that in normal circumstances, daily fuel demand remains stable, but recent buying patterns have pushed consumption levels far beyond average expectations.

The Chief Minister directed officials to take immediate corrective measures to ensure smooth fuel distribution and prevent inconvenience to the public. He instructed district collectors and civil supplies authorities to closely monitor petrol bunks and coordinate with oil companies to restore normal supply levels at the earliest.

Authorities have also been asked to submit a detailed report on the current situation, including the number of affected stations, supply gaps, and steps being taken to stabilize distribution. Special focus has been placed on ensuring that essential services such as transport, agriculture, and emergency operations are not affected due to fuel shortage concerns.

Officials have further appealed to the public not to engage in panic buying, emphasizing that adequate fuel stocks are available and being continuously replenished. They warned that unnecessary hoarding only worsens temporary disruptions and creates avoidable pressure on the supply chain.

Meanwhile, efforts are underway to streamline fuel delivery schedules and increase tanker movement to affected areas. Coordination between oil companies, depot managers, and local administration has been intensified to restore normal operations in all districts.

The government has also highlighted that monitoring systems are being strengthened to track fuel availability in real time. This is expected to help prevent similar disruptions in the future and ensure better response mechanisms during sudden demand fluctuations.

As the situation gradually stabilizes, authorities remain focused on restoring full functionality of all petrol bunks and reassuring the public that there is no actual shortage of fuel in the state-only a temporary imbalance caused by panic-driven demand.