Fuel stations in Purnia witness panic buying

Patna: Fuel stations in Purnia witnessed a sudden rush for petrol and diesel on Thursday as people flocked there carrying plastic drums, containers and other storage vessels to stock up fuel. The surge led to traffic congestion near several fuel stations.Purnia district magistrate Anshul Kumar said the situation briefly went out of control due to rumours about a possible hike in fuel prices.“Things got a bit out of control on Thursday due to rumours regarding a fuel price hike. Retail managers were sent to fuel stations to handle the situation,” he said. Kumar added that the situation is now under control after officials dispelled the misinformation and managed the crowds.Eyewitnesses said the panic buying was triggered by rumours that the simmering West Asia crisis could lead to a rise in fuel prices.District administration officials have urged people not to hoard fuel and avoid panic buying.Security personnel were deployed at several high-volume fuel stations to maintain order.Authorities are also monitoring fuel availability across the district to prevent further instances of panic-driven buying.