Mumbaikars panic purchase petrol as Middle East conflict fuels concerns; demands surge at gas stations

Impact of US-Iran war: Petrol pump owners said demand jumped by nearly 30–35% compared to usual days.

Fuel stations across the city witnessed a surge in demand on Wednesday as motorists rushed to fill their tanks amid escalating tensions in the Gulf region, fearing possible supply disruptions and price hikes.

Petrol pump operators said the heightened demand could persist over the next few days depending on geopolitical developments. (Reuters/Representative Photo)

Petrol pump owners said demand jumped by nearly 30–35% compared to usual days. “One petrol pump is running dry, which is why I had to look for an alternative and this is where I landed to tank up. I fear this might be the situation in the days to come,” said Sherwin Crasto, a Kurla resident.

Motorists said they were filling full tanks as a precaution. A fuel station owner in Sewri, requesting anonymity, said dealers may have to place additional orders with oil marketing companies to avoid running out of stock. “We will call in for an additional tanker to ensure the business goes on,” he said.

Petrol pump operators said the heightened demand could persist over the next few days depending on geopolitical developments.