LUCKNOW, April 24 -- A surge in fuel demand across Uttar Pradesh's districts bordering Nepal has exposed a complex mix of factors ranging from a sharp cross-border price gap to strict anti-hoarding measures, triggering panic buying despite official assurances of adequate supply.

Officials said the spike in border districts is partly driven by petrol being taken across to Nepal, where prices are around Rs.60 per litre higher. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation amid concerns of diversion, even as rumours of a post-election fuel price hike have added to public anxiety. Social media speculation around rising global crude oil prices due to geopolitical tensions, despite stable domestic rates, has further fuelled panic, though of...