Petrol Pumps Crowded in UP; DM Appeals as Police Deployed

March 26, 2026

Several petrol pumps in Uttar Pradesh have seen unusually large crowds as motorists rushed to refuel vehicles amid growing concerns about fuel supply across parts of the state. The surge in demand was seen in cities including Gorakhpur, Prayagraj and nearby areas where long queues formed at fuel stations.

District Magistrate Takes to the Streets, Appeals for Calm

In response to the situation, the District Magistrate of Gorakhpur personally visited busy petrol stations and appealed to residents to maintain calm and avoid panic buying. Police were also called in to manage the crowds and ensure traffic did not get blocked around the fuel stations.

Officials Reassure Public on Fuel Availability

Authorities have repeatedly stated that there is no current shortage of petrol or diesel and that adequate supplies continue to be available. Officials emphasized that stock levels are sufficient for several weeks’ demand and citizens were urged not to act on rumors. Videos circulating online show long queues of vehicles at petrol pumps with many motorists expressing concerns about possible future shortages. However, officials from the district and state administrations have assured the public that the supply chains are intact and fuel deliveries are ongoing.

Panic Buying Linked to Rumours

Across the country recently, similar long queues at petrol stations have been reported in multiple cities, often triggered by rumors and panic buying rather than confirmed supply shortages. Authorities in other states have also had to appeal for calm and clarify that there is no actual shortage at the macro level.