Has petrol rationing arrived in Gujarat? Perhaps not officially, but unofficially, it seems that rationing has begun. In Surat, petrol pumps owned by private companies have limited petrol for a two-wheeler to just Rs100. This has annoyed two-wheeler owners. Not only two-wheeler owners but also owners of four-wheelers are being stressed.
People were surprised to see pumps in the city have posted placards informing the people of the limit on petrol they can purchase. Private petrol companies offer petrol worth only Rs100 to two-wheelers and Rs500 to four-wheelers. People are being forced to leave empty tanks. Frustrations are rising as the prices of petrol are very high but even then people have to face a shortage. Commuting to workplaces has become extremely difficult. Some people believe that if the companies do not have enough fuel then they should shut down the pumps rather than give out rationed amounts.
The Federation of Gujarat Petroleum Dealers Association (FGDPA) admitted that there was a shortage of petrol and diesel in the city. These private companies have their own refineries and they export more than half of the fuel. It is facing shortages on the supply front. Companies like BPCL and HPCL are also experiencing a 50% shortage on the fuel front as crude oil prices rise internationally and the government slashes fuel prices.
The petrol pumps in Ahmedabad as well are experiencing a short supply of fuel due to the hike in petroleum prices in the international market. Such a shortage is creating a hassle for city residents.
Lack of supply is bothering the owners of petrol pumps. People’s faith in their service is being shaken. We are working to resolve this issue.