Patna: Several petrol pumps in Patna have introduced fuel rationing, restricting sales to two-wheelers and cars, as operators report a temporary slowdown in supply from tankers. The limits have led to long queues at multiple filling stations across the Danapur and Bailey Road areas.
At several outlets, two-wheelers are being allowed fuel worth Rs 200–Rs 300, while cars are being limited to Rs 1,000–Rs 1,500 per visit. Petrol pump operators say the measures are aimed at preventing stations from running dry amid uneven replenishment of stocks.
Long queues were reported at multiple locations on Tuesday, particularly in Danapur. At a pump near Bailey Road, riders said they were restricted to Rs 300 worth of petrol for motorcycles and Rs 1,500 for cars. At another outlet on Gola Road, limits were set at Rs 200 for two-wheelers and Rs 1,000 for four-wheelers.
Some stations reported completely exhausting their stock earlier in the week before fresh tanker supplies arrived. Operators said the sudden demand surge following shortages at nearby pumps had intensified pressure on available fuel.
Vinod Singh, associated with a petrol pump near RPS Mor, said supply delays had forced operators to regulate distribution.
“The supply is not matching demand at the moment. If people start panic buying, those who genuinely need fuel may be left out. The limit has been introduced to ensure wider access,” he said.
He added that tanker arrivals had slowed in recent days but expected normal supply to resume shortly. “Our priority is to ensure no customer is turned away empty-handed,” he said.
Another pump manager, Anish Kumar, said their station had run out of petrol on Saturday and received fresh supply only on Tuesday morning.
“The tanker has just arrived and unloading is in progress. After that, normal supply will resume,” he said. “People should avoid panic and consider using public transport where possible.”
He added that broader global supply conditions were affecting availability and urged customers to cooperate.
Some motorists expressed concern over repeated trips to fuel stations due to rationing. Sudhir Kumar, a sales professional who usually relies on his motorcycle for fieldwork, said the limits were disrupting daily routines.
“I had planned to fill Rs 1,000 worth of petrol but was only given Rs 300. It means I will have to return again soon. Work that requires travel cannot shift to work from home unless employers allow it,” he said.
Another resident, Nirbhay Dubey, said restrictions had made it difficult to fully refuel vehicles over several days. “We are dependent on petrol for daily work, and now we have to manage with limited quantities and long queues,” he said.
Petrol pump operators say the rationing is temporary and intended to manage uneven supply until regular tanker deliveries stabilise.
