Panic Buying Ends, Petrol Pumps Across Odisha Witness Sharp Drop in Demand

Bhubaneswar, May 18 (BNP): After witnessing an unprecedented rush and panic buying over the past week, petrol pumps across Odisha wore a deserted look on Sunday as fuel demand dropped sharply following the restoration of regular stock supply.

Fuel stations in the Twin City of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, along with several other towns, reported unusually low customer turnout after days of long queues triggered by rumours of a possible fuel shortage. Many pumps that had temporarily run dry due to panic-driven demand were seen operating normally, with staff waiting idly for customers.

Petrol dealers said panic buying, amplified by television reports and viral social media posts, had pushed fuel demand far beyond normal levels, disrupting routine tanker delivery cycles and causing temporary shortages at several outlets. However, the situation stabilised after authorities and dealers assured uninterrupted fuel availability.

Officials of petrol pump associations said a large section of regular customers, who typically purchase fuel in small quantities, had already filled their tanks during the rush, leading to a sharp decline in footfall now. As a result, dealers expect reduced demand to continue for the next few days until fuel consumption returns to normal patterns.

According to dealers, major petrol pumps in Odisha recorded sales significantly below average on Sunday, with some outlets witnessing nearly a 60–70 per cent drop compared to normal daily business.

General Secretary of the All India Utkal Petroleum Dealers’ Association and owner of a fuel station in Bhubaneswar, Sanjay Lath, said the panic had eased after people realised there was no disruption in supply. He noted that fuel sales had dropped considerably as consumers who stocked up earlier are unlikely to revisit pumps immediately.

With supply chains functioning normally and adequate stock available, dealers expressed confidence that the fuel distribution system across the state has returned to stability.