The Tamil Nadu Petroleum Dealers Association has urged the State government to provide police protection to petrol pumps across Tamil Nadu following a sudden surge of motorists rushing to fuel stations amid rumours of a petrol and diesel shortage.
According to the association, panic buying by the public has led to long queues at petrol bunks in several cities and towns, creating law-and-order concerns for pump operators and staff. Many motorists reportedly arrived with cans and bottles to stock fuel, increasing crowd pressure at the outlets.
Dealers said the situation has been particularly difficult during night hours when only a limited number of employees are on duty. In some places, hundreds of vehicles lined up at fuel stations, forcing operators to manage heavy crowds and maintain order while continuing fuel sales.
Meanwhile, officials from oil companies clarified that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel in the State and that adequate stocks are available. They urged the public not to believe rumours circulating on social media and to purchase fuel only as required.
Petroleum dealers have appealed to the authorities to deploy police personnel at petrol pumps to regulate crowds and ensure smooth fuel distribution until the panic situation subsides.