Lucknow, March 29 -- After two days of panic-driven demand, the fuel supply situation across Uttar Pradesh showed clear signs of stabilisation on Saturday, with most urban centres, including Lucknow, returning to near normal. However, a mixed picture persisted in rural areas and in the distribution of domestic LPG cylinders, where logistical challenges remained to be addressed. By the third day on Saturday, petrol pumps that had witnessed long queues and chaotic scenes earlier were functioning in a far more relaxed environment. In the state capital, the rush had largely dissipated by afternoon, with most outlets catering only to routine refuelling needs. Officials and fuel station operators reiterated that there had been no actual shortage of petrol or diesel at any point. A ground assessment across Lucknow confirmed a sharp decline in panic buying. Areas such as Jankipuram, Vikas Nagar and Madiaon-earlier marked by heavy congestion-reported smooth operations, with barely any waiting time for customers. Dealers noted that the extraordinary spike in sales witnessed earlier in week had begun to taper off, returning closer to usual daily averages. Statewide data revealed that between March 24 and March 27, fuel consumption rose sharply, driven largely by fear rather than necessity. Petrol sales increased by 19% on March 24, surged by 36% on March 25, and by 77% on March 26. P6...