A major crisis appears to be brewing regarding the supply mechanism for petrol and diesel in Punjab. Severe fuel shortages have begun to surface at petrol pumps across several districts of the state. The recurring instances of pumps running dry have heightened concerns among the general public, farmers, and transport operators. Terming the situation as grave, the Petrol Pump Dealers Association Punjab (PPDAP) has written to the Chief Secretary, seeking immediate intervention.
In a letter sent by PPDAP President Paramjit Singh Doaba, it is stated that the fuel replenishment system at public sector oil company pumps in Punjab has been severely disrupted. The situation is particularly dire at HPCL and BPCL pumps, where complaints regarding the continuous depletion of petrol and diesel stocks are being received regularly. Although the situation at IOCL is reported to be relatively better, supply pressures have begun to mount there as well. The Dealers Association has alleged that despite dealers making advance payments, they are failing to receive fuel on time under the ‘Cash and Carry’ model. Consequently, pump operators are facing severe financial and operational crises. The letter notes that persistent delays in supply at petrol pumps across several districts have made it extremely difficult to maintain adequate stock levels.
The Association has leveled another serious allegation against the oil companies. Dealers claim that they are being pressured to boost sales of expensive premium petrol before being supplied with regular petrol and diesel. HPCL is reportedly mandating the ‘lifting’ (purchase) of ‘Power Petrol,’ while dealers associated with other companies are also being instructed to prioritize and ensure the sale of premium fuels. Dealers argue that while ordinary consumers are demanding regular petrol, the oil companies are placing excessive emphasis on pushing the sales of premium products.
The letter further points out that, historically, oil depots used to operate even on Sundays and public holidays; this ensured that pending indents were fulfilled in a timely manner and that the supply chain remained uninterrupted. However, following February 2026, several depots curtailed their operations during holidays and also reduced working hours. This disrupted the supply chain, leading to a deepening fuel crisis in many regions.
The situation has reached a point where long queues of vehicles are forming at petrol pumps that currently have stock available. Anxiety is also mounting among farmers, as the demand for diesel typically surges ahead of the paddy season. The transport sector has also begun to feel the impact, and concerns regarding potential disruptions to freight movement have intensified.
The PPDAP has urged the Chief Secretary to issue immediate directives to oil companies to ensure a regular, equitable, and uninterrupted supply of fuel. The association has warned that if a timely solution is not found, the fuel crisis in Punjab could escalate further, thereby adversely affecting public life and economic activities.
