Andhra CM reviews fuel shortage, orders close monitoring of supply

N. Chandrababu Naidu, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, on Tuesday reviewed the ongoing shortage of petrol and diesel in the state and directed officials to closely monitor supplies until the situation stabilises. 

During a teleconference with senior officials across departments, district collectors, and representatives of oil marketing companies, the Chief Minister was briefed on the current supply position and the steps being taken to address the shortfall, according to the office of the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.

Supply review and immediate measures

Officials said fuel dispatches from petroleum companies to depots are underway, with efforts being made to streamline distribution and ease local shortages. The review comes amid concerns over availability in several districts, prompting the government to step up coordination with oil firms. 

Naidu instructed authorities to maintain continuous surveillance of stock levels and ensure the timely movement of fuel to affected areas. He emphasised the need for real-time monitoring and swift response to prevent disruption to essential services.

Global factors add to supply pressure

The supply stress comes against the backdrop of rising global energy concerns linked to tensions in West Asia, which have disrupted crude oil supply chains and pushed up international prices. Benchmark crude has shown volatility in recent weeks as fears of disruptions through key transit routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, have intensified.

India, which imports over 85% of its crude oil requirements, remains particularly vulnerable to such external shocks. Any disruption in global supplies or spike in freight and insurance costs tends to have a cascading impact on domestic fuel availability and pricing. Industry officials noted that logistical bottlenecks and tighter supply schedules from refiners have also contributed to intermittent shortages in some regions.

The Centre and state governments are coordinating with oil marketing companies to ensure adequate stocks and minimise disruption. Officials said efforts are underway to ramp up supplies and improve distribution logistics in affected areas.

The Andhra Pradesh government is also working closely with oil companies to restore normal supply at the earliest, with the situation being monitored on a continuous basis.