Nayara Energy issued a statement refuting claims about the introduction of restrictions on the sale of gasoline and diesel fuel at its retail outlets. The company emphasized that it is taking steps to ensure sufficient fuel availability for consumers.
This statement followed remarks from an official representative of the Ministry of Energy expressing dissatisfaction with private fuel retailers limiting fuel sales amid rising global crude oil prices.
In an official announcement, the company stated: 'Nayara Energy continues to support fuel availability across its entire national retail network and is taking appropriate measures to ensure unimpeded customer access in line with current demand models. No supply restrictions have been introduced at our retail network dealers.'
The company added that it remains committed to serving the Indian market and meeting fuel demand nationwide. As the largest private fuel retailer in the country, its main priority is ensuring optimal supplies to over 7000 stations and other channels, including wholesale buyers.
Earlier the same day, India's Petroleum Secretary Niraj Mittal announced that the government would instruct private fuel retailers across the country to cease imposing limits on the sale of diesel and gasoline at retail points.
Mittal stated: 'No one is allowed to impose sales limits. They are doing it, and we will address it. We will tell them that it is unacceptable. Instructions were previously issued; the same applies today. The government's position has not changed.'
According to one report, private Indian oil refining companies Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) and Nayara Energy were restricting fuel sales at their retail outlets to minimize losses from selling fuel below market prices. While Jio-bp stations had a limit of 50 liters of diesel per customer per day, Nayara's outlets had limits ranging from 70 to 200 liters.
Earlier this week, RIL had stated that it was taking appropriate measures to ensure fair fuel availability for mobility and transport needs. A company representative noted: 'These measures are aimed at supporting maximum access to fuel for customers depending on demand conditions. Our focus remains on ensuring fuel availability and an uninterrupted customer experience in the Jio-bp network.'