Fuel Shortage Intensifies in Jamshedpur

Jamshedpur: A deepening fuel crisis has thrown normal life into disarray across Jamshedpur and adjoining parts of Kolhan, with nearly 40 per cent of petrol pumps reportedly running dry and several others forced to ration supplies amid dwindling stock and surging public demand. From city centres to rural pockets, “No Stock” signs have become a common sight, while long queues of anxious motorists have formed outside operational fuel stations. 

The shortage, affecting both petrol and diesel, has begun disrupting daily commuting, goods transportation, emergency services and commercial operations in the region.According to petrol pump operators, the crisis has escalated following a revised fuel allocation formula introduced by public sector oil companies—including Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited—which is reportedly based on average fuel sales recorded in May last year. 

However, with demand witnessing a sharp spike this year, dealers say current allocations are falling far short of actual consumption.“Earlier, we sold around 10,000 litres a day. Now demand has touched nearly 18,000 litres, but our supply quota remains nearly the same. Stocks are getting exhausted within hours,” said a manager of a prominent fuel station in Bistupur.

To prevent complete depletion, several city pumps have imposed emergency restrictions. At Jubilee Park fuel station in Sakchi, private vehicle owners are being allowed a maximum of 40 litres per fill, while diesel sales at Sakchi Market have been capped at 150 litres. 

In Mango, some outlets have reportedly run out of regular petrol altogether, compelling customers to purchase premium fuel at higher prices.Petrol pump operators have also prohibited the sale of fuel in cans and jerrycans in an attempt to curb hoarding and black-market activity.

The situation in rural areas such as Potka, Hata and Haldipokhar is said to be even more severe. Several smaller outlets have completely exhausted their stock, while others are restricting sales to as little as  Rs 100 worth of petrol per customer.

Residents are growing increasingly frustrated.
“I visited three petrol pumps this morning before finally finding one with fuel. I spent nearly an hour in queues. This is becoming unbearable,” said Rajesh Kumar, a private sector employee from Sonari.

“For people who rely on daily travel for work, this shortage is a serious concern. If this continues for another two days, transport and business will come to a standstill,” said Neha Singh, a school teacher in Mango.

Auto-rickshaw drivers and transporters have also raised alarm. “Fuel scarcity means fewer trips and reduced income. We are losing valuable working hours waiting at pumps,” said Mohammad Salim, an auto driver in Sakchi.

Industry observers warn that prolonged disruption could impact freight movement, supply chains, school transportation and essential services in the industrial city.

Adding to the crisis is widespread panic buying. Rumours of an extended shortage have prompted many residents to top up vehicle tanks regardless of immediate need, further straining available reserves.Fuel dealers and officials have appealed to citizens to avoid unnecessary hoarding and purchase fuel responsibly.

“This is a temporary supply imbalance. We urge consumers not to panic. Fresh consignments are expected soon, and normalcy should be restored if public cooperation continues,” said a senior petrol pump association representative.

As Jamshedpur grapples with the shortage, questions are also being raised over supply planning and administrative preparedness in one of Jharkhand’s most critical industrial and transport hubs. Unless replenishment arrives swiftly, the city could face a more severe mobility and economic disruption in the coming days.