26.03.2026 10:51
Long queues formed at fuel stations across the country following claims that changes in payment systems of oil companies in India and escalating tensions in the Middle East could lead to a fuel shortage. As fights over fuel broke out at the stations, images of people attacking each other with cans in their hands garnered significant attention.
According to news in the Indian press, claims that "oil supply will stop and there will be a fuel shortage in the country" have rapidly spread, causing concern.
LONG QUEUES FORMED
Indians, especially in the states of Gujarat, Telangana, and Madhya Pradesh, formed long queues in front of stations to refuel their vehicles across the country.
FIGHTS STARTED AT STATIONS
While the rumors caused tension at fuel stations, fights also broke out among people competing with each other. Images of those fighting by hitting each other with cans made an impact.
QUEUES EXCEEDED 500 METERS
Officials from oil companies stated that sales have increased by 2 to 3 times compared to normal and that queues in front of some stations have exceeded 500 meters.
Officials noted that a temporary change in payment systems and the resulting short-term shipment delays have been interpreted by the public as "stocks running out," and they expect the intensity at the stations to decrease shortly with the system returning to normal.
DISRUPTION FUELING PANIC
Officials expressed that concerns about possible disruptions in shipments through the Strait of Hormuz due to escalating tensions in the Middle East have also fueled panic. They emphasized that there is no need for concern and stressed that "baseless claims" should not be taken seriously.
MODI HAS A STATEMENT
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated yesterday that the attacks by the US-Israel and Iran's retaliations have shaken the world economy and that the losses in the region so far will take "a long time" to overcome. Modi mentioned that strategic oil reserves have been developed over the last 11 years, that India has sufficient crude oil stock, and that they are working to minimize the impact of this situation on the country.