Bhagalpur/Patna: The motorists of Bhagalpur are facing a worsening fuel shortage as the closure of the Vikramshila bridge has disrupted fuel supply chains. Many petrol pumps have reportedly run out of stock over the past two days, forcing motorists to search across the city for fuel.
Fuel Rationing Introduced at Several Stations
As supplies dwindled, some filling stations imposed restrictions on fuel purchases. At one station near Station Chowk, customers were limited to petrol worth only Rs200 per vehicle.
Several Pumps Shut for Days
The crisis has been especially severe in certain areas. A petrol station in Sabour has remained closed for nearly a week, while another in Jicho has reportedly been unable to supply fuel for the past three days.
Long Queues Form After Tanker Deliveries
Large crowds gathered at fuel stations after tankers arrived with fresh supplies. Long queues were seen near Zeromile and Kachahri Chowk as residents rushed to refill their vehicles.
Traffic Congestion Disrupting Fuel Supply Chain
According to an Indian Oil Corporation Limited official, the closure of the Vikramshila bridge has diverted traffic to the Sultanpur route, where heavy congestion is delaying oil tankers and affecting deliveries across the city.
Southern Bhagalpur Among Worst-Hit Areas
Lower Nathnagar Road and nearby localities in southern Bhagalpur have been severely impacted, with several filling stations completely out of stock.
Public Transport and Daily Life Affected
The shortage has disrupted services of auto-rickshaws, taxis and goods carrier vehicles. Residents are facing difficulties commuting to schools, offices and accessing essential services.
Authorities Claim Supplies Are Normal
Despite widespread shortages, district authorities have maintained that petrol, diesel and cooking gas supplies remain normal. However, pump operators say they are struggling due to poor coordination and rising public frustration.
Businesses Warn of Wider Supply Disruptions
Transport operators and business groups have warned that continued disruption could affect the supply of essential goods in the coming days.
Residents Await Restoration of Normal Supplies
Citizens are now hoping that the reopening of the Vikramshila bridge and smoother tanker movement will help resolve the ongoing fuel crisis
