Fuel Prices Rise Overnight, Sparking Anger and Shortages Across Gujarat

Ahmedabad | Gujarat — A sudden overnight hike in petrol and diesel prices has delivered a sharp blow to households and commuters across Gujarat, igniting anger and anxiety—especially in Surat, where fuel shortages surfaced within hours of the increase. Petrol jumped by ₹2.99 per litre to ₹97.50, while diesel rose by ₹3.09 to ₹93.29 late on May 14, with the revised rates implemented at an unusual hour of 3 am, catching consumers completely off guard.

Motorists who rushed to petrol pumps early Friday morning found themselves paying significantly more than expected. For many, the shock was compounded by long queues and, in several areas, empty pumps displaying stark “No Petrol-Diesel” boards.

Pumps Run Dry in Key Surat Areas

Fuel stations in Varachha, Katargam, Gothan and Velanja reported depleted stocks as supply struggled to keep pace with sudden demand. Some outlets sold only premium petrol, leaving ordinary commuters stranded or forced to pay more.

The sudden shortage intensified frustration among residents already grappling with rising living costs.

Citizens React: “How Will We Survive?”

For many low-income workers, the hike felt like a direct hit to their monthly survival. Praveenbhai, a housekeeping worker earning ₹10,000 a month, voiced his anguish:

“What should I do now? My salary is ₹10,000 and petrol keeps rising. Should we buy vegetables or petrol? The government must think about increasing salaries for small people.”

Razia, a homemaker, echoed the widespread sentiment of frustration,“They increase prices anytime. We knew this would happen after elections. This will ruin everyone’s budget.”

Some residents even called for systemic changes. Sunny Solanki suggested that “work from home should be implemented as soon as possible” to reduce commuting costs.

Not everyone opposed the hike outright. Natwarlal Babulal Shah said he believed the decision must have been taken for a reason, adding that “systematic decisions are good, whatever the Prime Minister does.”

Dealers Defend the Increase

Fuel dealers insist the hike was inevitable amid global tensions and soaring crude oil prices. Arvind Thakkar, President of the United Petroleum Dealer Association in Ahmedabad, explained:

“There has been a war-like situation for a long time affecting fuel supply. Crude prices have surged from $70–80 to around $140. The government had delayed the hike for consumers, but losses reached ₹2,500 crore daily.”

He also urged citizens not to panic, claiming there is “enough supply available and no need for panic buying.”

Inflation Worries Deepen

Despite assurances, the sudden hike has reignited fears of rising inflation, as fuel costs influence transportation, food prices and daily expenses. With petrol and diesel affecting nearly every sector, citizens worry the ripple effects will soon be felt across markets.