Demand for petrol and diesel has surged dramatically across various districts in India,with fourteen districts reporting a doubling of petrol consumption and six districts experiencing a similar spike in diesel usage. This increase was highlighted by Sujata Sharma,Joint Secretary at Union Petroleum Ministry,during a press briefing on Friday.
approximately 150 districts nationwide have seen petrol sales rise by more than 30%, while diesel sales have similarly increased in 156 districts. The figures indicate a significant shift in consumer behavior,driven largely by the onset of the agricultural season. Bulk diesel consumers are increasingly turning to retail pumps, motivated by price differences,while many are opting for state-owned oil marketing companies (OMCs) over private ones.
In Maharashtra, petrol sales surged by 17.24% and diesel sales by 27.25% as of May 28, compared to the same timeframe last year. The trend is echoed in Goa, where diesel retail sales increased by 19.36% in South Goa and 14.27% in North Goa during the same period.
Sharma also noted that shortages of diesel in certain areas are affecting movement of trucks, highlighting the logistical challenges posed by the rising demand. The government continues to monitor the situation closely as the agricultural season progresses, which traditionally drives higher fuel consumption.
