Guwahati :  Panic buying driven by rumours of a fuel shortage has led to a sharp spike in sales across Guwahati, with authorities maintaining that supplies remain adequate and urging residents not to rush to petrol pumps.

Reports from several parts of the city and other areas of Assam indicate that fuel outlets have witnessed an unusual surge in demand since early morning, with sales rising by nearly 30 per cent in some locations. The sudden rush has resulted in temporary stock strain at certain depots, fuelling concerns among consumers.

Officials, however, have dismissed fears of an actual shortage. Sources in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said that while global developments, including tensions in West Asia, may have had a marginal impact, fuel availability remains under control.

“There is no shortage of fuel at present. The Ministry is closely monitoring the situation,” a senior official said, adding that instances of panic buying may have worsened the situation. There were also indications that some private players could be contributing to an artificial sense of scarcity.

On the ground, the impact of the rush was visible. At a fuel station on Rajgarh Road, dispensers briefly ran dry, with a ‘No Petrol’ notice displayed. Staff attributed the situation to an unexpected surge in demand, with many consumers opting to fill their tanks amid uncertainty.

Employees at fuel depots reported that while demand had spiked sharply, replenishment supplies were still awaited. “If tankers do not arrive on schedule, existing stock could run out quickly due to the sudden increase in sales,” a depot worker said.

Operators at some outlets also pointed to recent logistical changes, including reduced fuel allocations and earlier loading deadlines, as factors contributing to supply tightness at the retail level. However, they clarified that this did not necessarily indicate a systemic shortage.

The district administration has begun assessing the situation. The Office of the Deputy Commissioner in Kamrup (Metro) is compiling a detailed report on stock levels across depots to determine the actual supply position.

Chief Secretary Ravi Kota reiterated that there is no cause for concern. “We have checked with petrol pumps across the city, and all have confirmed adequate availability of petrol and diesel,” he said.

Authorities have appealed to the public to avoid panic buying and rely on official information, warning that unnecessary hoarding could disrupt normal supply chains and create avoidable shortages.