Hyderabad witnessed a surge in concerns over fuel availability on Tuesday, January 2, as a nationwide truck drivers’ strike caused significant traffic at petrol stations. The strike, initiated in protest against a new hit-and-run law introduced by the Center, led to widespread fears of a looming fuel shortage among motorists.
The situation escalated to the point where motorists queued up in large numbers at petrol stations, exacerbating traffic congestion across the city. This heightened state of concern prompted the Center to intervene urgently. Emergency discussions were held with the striking truck drivers, leading to a decisive call to end the strike.
By Wednesday, 3rd January, the efforts bore fruit as all petrol stations in Hyderabad resumed operations. Drivers, having heeded the call to return to their duties, were seen arriving at these stations with oil tankers. This swift action not only eased the immediate fuel shortage but also restored confidence among the public.
In tandem with these developments, banks stepped forward to assure the populace, confirming their full stock of petrol and diesel. Bank staff actively communicated this to motorists, emphasizing that there was no need for alarm. However, despite these reassurances, a lingering sense of uncertainty persisted among some motorists, prompting them to queue up near banks and petrol stations.
In retrospect, while the strike-induced fuel crisis posed initial challenges, collaborative efforts between government bodies, truck drivers, and fuel station owners ensured a timely resolution. The incident serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of various sectors and the importance of swift, coordinated actions during times of crisis.