India, May 23 -- Assuring citizens that Maharashtra has adequate fuel stocks and there is no shortage of petrol or diesel in the state, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Friday urged people not to indulge in panic buying and hoarding, even as several districts witnessed long queues, clashes and protests over fuel availability.

According to the state government, Maharashtra recorded nearly a 20% rise in petrol and diesel sales between May 1 and May 20 due to panic buying triggered by rumours of possible supply disruptions amid the West Asia crisis. On May 19 alone, diesel sales surged by 42% and petrol sales by 21% compared to average daily sales, putting pressure on supply chains in parts of Marathwada and western Vidar...