AP dealers blame oil companies for fuel supply cuts

Vijayawada: A diesel shortage reported over the past two days in several parts of Andhra Pradesh has led to widespread disruption, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas, even as major urban centres continue to witness normal fuel availability.Petrol stations in districts such as Kurnool, Kakinada, Krishna, NTR, Srikakulam and Vizianagaram have either shut operations temporarily or put up "No Stock" boards, sparking concern among the public. While oil companies have cited supply constraints and linked the issue to payment-related factors, the Andhra Pradesh Petroleum Dealers Federation has strongly refuted the claims. Federation president Raavi Gopalakrishna said, "There is no truth in the claims that supply has been affected due to pending dues from dealers. Payments have been made. Despite high demand, oil companies are not supplying adequate fuel."He added that fuel tankers were seen waiting near depots in Kondapalli without timely loading. "Our vehicles are waiting for refuelling near fuel depots, but supply is not happening as required. We suspect that stocks have come down to some extent, but companies are not giving a clear explanation," he said. Gopalakrishna also noted that supply showed slight improvement by Saturday evening and expressed hope that normalcy would return if tanker supply continues steadily for the next two days.Chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the situation and directed civil supplies officials to immediately compile data on fuel shortages and non-operational petrol stations across the state. Chief secretary G Sai Prasad and civil supplies commissioner Kannababu are coordinating with oil companies to streamline distribution.