Andhra CM Naidu's Swift Action to Tackle Fuel Crisis in the State

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu instructed officials and oil companies to address a fuel shortage, ensuring normalcy by Monday. The crisis, sparked by soaring fuel demand and halted credit facilities, prompted the CM to initiate an inquiry, set up a task force, and warn of potential repercussions.

In response to a growing fuel shortage across Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials and representatives from oil companies to restore normal supply conditions by Monday. This directive followed a teleconference from his camp office, where the reasons behind the sudden surge in petrol and diesel demand were scrutinized.

Officials reported a notable rise in fuel demand due to commercial consumers purchasing from retail outlets. Petrol sales spiked by 34% on Saturday, reaching 8,489 KL, and sustained a 22% increase on Sunday at 7,750 KL. Diesel demand followed suit, increasing by 16% on Saturday and maintaining a 3% rise on Sunday. District collectors reported that the supply halt from private operators like Nayara, Reliance, and Jio, along with oil companies ceasing credit to outlets, exacerbated the shortage.

The Chief Minister sternly questioned representatives from HPCL, IOCL, and BPCL about the suspension of credit facilities and warned against deliberate public inconveniences. He instructed the formation of a special task force involving revenue, police, and legal metrology departments to manage the situation. An inquiry into the shortage was ordered, along with measures to prevent any stoppage in diesel supply to essential agricultural machinery, hinting at a potential coupon system for farmers.