Mumbai, March 9 Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured on Monday that the Union government was taking adequate steps to ensure energy security and prevent any shortage of essential resources amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Speaking to reporters at Vidhan Bhavan, Fadnavis said that the Centre was actively managing energy sources and closely monitoring developments worldwide.
"All possible measures are being taken to ensure that there is no shortage of anything. No one should spread rumors or believe in rumors. If we start stocking up based on rumors, the situation will worsen for everyone, as it will disrupt the demand and supply chain," he said in response to a question about a potential fuel shortage.
He further urged citizens not to panic.
Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE have cut their oil production, while Iran, Israel, and the United States have attacked oil and gas facilities since the conflict broke out in West Asia earlier this month, exacerbating supply concerns.
Crude oil prices surged by more than 26% on Monday, reaching a lifetime high of ₹10,549 per barrel.
The chief minister pointed out that when a tariff war broke out internationally, India did not back down but instead pushed ahead with trade agreements with various countries, asserting its sovereignty.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had handled the situation effectively and maintained proper communication to safeguard the country's interests, he added.