Fuel Shortage Crisis Deepens in Ratnagiri; Petrol and Diesel Restrictions Raise Transport Collapse Fears
Limited fuel supply triggers long queues, disrupts daily commute; citizens and transport operators demand urgent government intervention
Ratnagiri: A severe crisis of fuel shortage has currently emerged in the Ratnagiri district; alongside domestic cooking gas, restrictions have now been imposed on the consumption of petrol and diesel as well. This decision has sparked significant anxiety among vehicle owners and the general public alike.
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Given the current situation, two-wheelers are being allotted petrol worth only ₹200, while four-wheelers are limited to petrol purchases of up to ₹500. As the supply of diesel is also insufficient, many vehicle owners are facing considerable hardship. Fuel stocks at numerous petrol pumps across the district are nearing depletion, and some pumps are on the verge of shutting down completely.
Due to the fuel shortage, long queues have formed at various petrol pumps. Motorists are forced to shuttle from one pump to another in a desperate attempt to procure fuel, resulting in a wasteful expenditure of both time and fuel. This situation has created an atmosphere of unease and resentment among the citizens.
This crisis is having a direct impact on both public and private transport systems, raising the likelihood of disruptions to bus services, auto-rickshaws, and other passenger transport operations. Consequently, it is anticipated that employees commuting to work, traders, and students will face immense difficulties.
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The impact is expected to be particularly severe on school and college students. With examinations just around the corner, any disruption to transport services could make it extremely difficult for many students to reach their examination centers, thereby raising fears of academic loss.
If this situation persists, the district’s economy could suffer a major blow. Trade, industry, and daily commercial activities are likely to be affected, potentially causing the economic cycle to slow down. Meanwhile, public demand is growing increasingly vocal for the administration to take immediate remedial measures to streamline the fuel supply and resolve this crisis. Due to the inadequate supply of petrol and CNG, we are facing the threat of starvation. It will become extremely difficult for us to repay the loans taken for our vehicles. If the government fails to normalize this fuel supply, we will be left with no alternative but to commit suicide. Since we are forced to stand in queues for hours on end, a significant amount of our time is wasted due to the lack of business.– Rajendra Mahadik, Rickshaw Operator, Ratnagiri
