March 25, 2026
Long lines formed at petrol stations across India on Wednesday as fears over fuel shortages grew amid the ongoing war involving Iran. Reports of panic buying came from major cities in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Telangana, with police in some areas — including parts of Gujarat — deployed to manage crowds.
The surge in demand was driven by concern about the conflict’s impact on crude prices and supply. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane through which a large share of India’s oil and gas imports transit, has seen traffic severely reduced — reportedly down by as much as 90% — prompting anxiety about deliveries. India relies on the route for roughly 40% or more of its crude imports.
Officials sought to calm the public. The government said adequate stocks of petrol, diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are available nationwide and urged people not to believe rumours of shortages. Sujata Sharma, a senior petroleum ministry official, said field checks showed petrol pumps operating normally and sufficient fuel at distribution points.
New Delhi has taken emergency measures and engaged with Tehran to secure safe passage for Indian ships. Two Indian-flagged tankers carrying LPG reportedly transited the Strait of Hormuz on Monday and were due to dock in India in the coming days, authorities said.
Analysts warn that while immediate domestic supplies remain stable, sustained disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could pressure prices and logistics over time, potentially affecting domestic availability if the conflict continues. For now, officials continue to monitor shipments and reassure consumers that strategic stocks and supply chains are being managed to avoid shortages.