Long queues of trucks have begun appearing at fuel stations across India as fears grow over an impending diesel price hike and supply disruptions linked to rising global oil prices.

At a service station near Nagpur, dozens of trucks carrying goods ranging from garments and snacks to e-commerce packages and railway equipment were seen waiting for hours to refuel.

Drivers reported difficulties finding diesel at multiple pumps, with some stations either rationing supplies or running dry by midday.

Truckers report fuel shortages

Truck driver Surya Kant Kendre said he had travelled nearly 80 kilometres searching for diesel before finally halting near Nagpur after visiting several pumps without success.

Fuel station operators say supplies are under pressure as demand surges ahead of an expected increase in petrol and diesel prices — the first major revision in nearly four years.

Despite the situation on the ground, Hardeep Singh Puri stated that there were no nationwide fuel shortages and that petrol pumps across India continued to have fuel available.

Private retailers cut sales

Industry reports indicate that some private fuel retailers, including Shell plc and Nayara Energy, have either increased diesel prices or reduced supply volumes due to rising international crude oil costs.

Meanwhile, state-run companies such as Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum have largely maintained retail prices, resulting in increased pressure on their outlets.

Several truck operators also reported fuel rationing at pumps, with some stations limiting sales to as little as 50 to 100 litres per vehicle.

Global tensions impact Indian fuel market

Analysts say the ongoing conflict in the Persian Gulf has significantly increased crude oil prices, freight costs and insurance premiums, putting pressure on India’s fuel market.

A weakening rupee has further worsened the situation for refiners already selling fuel below cost.

Reports suggest the government may soon allow a modest increase of around Rs 5 per litre for petrol and diesel, although oil companies are believed to require larger hikes to fully offset losses