Bhatkal: An unexpected fuel shortage in the coastal town of Bhatkal on Sunday caused significant inconvenience to the public after petrol and diesel stocks simultaneously ran out at all six fuel stations four in Murdeshwar around 11:30 am to 12 noon.

The situation turned critical as all pumps in Bhatkal ran dry at the same time, forcing motorists and commuters to struggle for fuel and seek alternatives.

Fahiman Mohtisham, Managing Director of a Bharat Petroleum outlet near Shamsuddin Circle, stated that both petrol and diesel stocks were completely exhausted on Sunday. However, fresh supplies arrived on Monday at around 4 pm, restoring normal operations.

As soon as fuel supply resumed, a large number of vehicles thronged the petrol pumps, leading to long queues that persisted for several hours.

Residents expressed concern over the sudden disruption and urged authorities to take preventive measures to avoid such situations in the future.