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Bhatkal, March 04, 2026: Long queues were witnessed at several petrol pumps across Bhatkal on Wednesday as residents scrambled to refuel amid fears of a global fuel shortage. The panic follows a series of military strikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iran, which has sparked concerns over a massive disruption in the international crude oil supply.

In Bhatkal, locals were seen filling petrol into bottles and containers as a precautionary measure against potential price hikes. The anxiety stems from Iran’s decision to restrict maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which a significant portion of the world’s oil shipments passes. Any disruption along this route immediately impacts global energy markets.

While global Brent crude prices surged past $85 per barrel, Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri assured that India maintains adequate reserves for approximately 50 days between crude stocks and refined products. Despite these official assurances, many citizens fear that the geopolitical confrontation will soon lead to a spike in domestic retail fuel costs.

Energy analysts have cautioned that panic buying and hoarding could create artificial local shortages, further intensifying public anxiety. At present, fuel supplies continue without actual disruption, but markets remain on edge as the situation in the Middle East unfolds.

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