Keonjhar: Amid concerns over fuel availability, the Keonjhar district administration has directed all retail fuel outlets in the district to maintain a minimum reserve stock of petrol and diesel for emergency purposes.

According to an official letter issued by the Keonjhar Collector, all petrol pumps in the district have been instructed to keep at least 2,000 litres of High-Speed Diesel (HSD) and 1,000 litres of Motor Spirit (MS/Petrol) in reserve at all times.

The letter was addressed to all proprietors of retail outlets in Keonjhar district.

The decision was taken to ensure an uninterrupted supply of petroleum products during emergency situations. The reserve stock has been earmarked exclusively for emergency requirements and should not be exhausted during normal sale operations.

The letter further warned that any deviation from the directive would be viewed seriously by the administration.

The move comes at a time when concerns over fuel availability have surfaced in several parts of Odisha, as long queues are being witnessed outside fuel stations in the state.