India's leading state-run oil marketing companies have provided comprehensive assurance about fuel availability across the country amid rising concerns. According to reports from Zee News, Indian Oil Corporation (IndianOil), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) took to microblogging platform X to address public concerns about fuel shortages. The companies stated that fuel distribution networks are functioning normally with adequate stock availability and regular replenishment. Latest reports from ANI confirm that India is not facing a shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG, with sources emphasizing that India is a net exporter and surplus in petroleum products. As per IOCL, supply locations and ground teams are working tirelessly in close coordination to ensure sufficient product availability at retail outlets. The companies have now issued specific advisories urging customers to refuel their vehicles as per normal requirement and avoid panic buying, with IOCL stating that pressure on logistics has occurred due to shift from Commercial Sales & Private Petrol Pumps to Retail Outlets.
HPCL provided specific regional performance data to dispel shortage concerns. As reported by Zee News, petrol supplies in Rajasthan increased 19 per cent between May 1 and May 20 compared to historical sales, while diesel supplies rose 24.5 per cent during the same period. The company clarified that all retail outlets in Rajasthan, including Jaipur, are operating normally with continuous replenishment and adequate fuel stocks. HPCL has now released updated figures showing HPCL recorded strong growth in fuel supply in Rajasthan: Petrol (MS): 50,575 KL, compared to historical sales of 42,501 KL — representing a 19% increase, and Diesel (HSD): 1,14,422 KL, compared to historical sales of 91,894 KL — representing a 24.5% increase. The company explained that temporary increase in customer numbers and queues at some locations is primarily due to seasonal demand surge during the month of May, with many customers preferring HPCL retail outlets because fuel is being sold at relatively higher prices at some private retail outlets.
The surge in fuel sales is attributed to multiple market factors beyond seasonal demand. According to ANI sources, more consumers are choosing state-run retailers over private oil marketing companies, which are currently charging higher prices for their fuel. The sources noted that there is a shift from private OMCs who are retailing at a ₹5 per litre higher price. Additionally, the migration of institutional and commercial buyers is another reason behind the increase in sales at public sector fuel stations, where fuel prices are higher due to alignment with international rates. Institutional/commercial sales are priced around ₹20 per litre higher than the actual international price, creating a significant price differential that influences consumer behavior. HPCL has confirmed that higher-than-normal sales are being recorded at some outlets due to these reasons, however adequate stock is available.
HPCL addressed LPG supply concerns in Karnataka, stating that LPG supplies across Karnataka remain stable despite enforcement action against black marketing and irregularities. According to Zee News, the Karnataka government has seized 1,874 LPG cylinders and initiated cases against irregular activities as of May 19, 2026. The company emphasized that LPG supplies across Karnataka remain stable despite these enforcement measures, with no disruption to normal supply chains. HPCL has now provided detailed LPG supply data from Karnataka, showing during the period from May 1–19, 2026, HPCL recorded: Domestic LPG supplies: 22,303.4 MT, Commercial LPG supplies: 3,815.6 MT, and FTL & FTLR cylinder deliveries: 11,893 cylinders. The company's average daily LPG distribution during the period stood at: Domestic LPG: 1,174 MT per day, Commercial LPG: 201 MT per day, and FTL & FTLR: 626 cylinders per day.
The OMCs have issued specific advisories to customers regarding fuel availability and LPG usage. According to Zee News, the companies requested customers to avoid panic buying and depend only on official communication channels for verified information regarding fuel supplies. IOCL specifically requested customers to fuel their vehicles based on their normal requirement and not panic while buying fuel. BPCL has emphasized that ensuring safe and reliable Bharatgas supply for every household remains a priority, encouraging customers to book LPG through official online channels as per normal requirement and avoid panic booking or unnecessary stocking. The companies have urged customers to rely only on official sources for accurate information and not engage with rumours and unverified messages circulating on social media and TV platforms. HPCL has stated that reports of fuel shortages and supply disruptions are misleading and do not reflect the actual situation, with the company fully committed to ensuring uninterrupted fuel availability and excellent customer service through its network.
