On March 24, 2026, heavy rain and a hailstorm affected several parts of Hyderabad, leading to significant traffic congestion across the city during peak evening hours. Commuters reported long queues of vehicles particularly in the IT corridor around Gachibowli and Biodiversity Junction, exacerbating the already challenging conditions.
Hyderabad District Collector Hari Chandana Dasari reassured residents on March 25 that there was no fuel shortage in the district. “All 181 petrol pumps in Hyderabad district are fully operational and adequately stocked,” she stated, aiming to quell rising concerns among the public.
Despite these assurances, panic buying at fuel stations persisted for the third consecutive day, with many residents rushing to fill their tanks. The situation at fuel stations showed signs of improvement in the afternoon of March 26, 2026, as the initial rush began to ease.
However, not all were able to benefit from the improved conditions. LPG auto drivers faced difficulties in obtaining fuel, with some waiting in line for extended periods. One driver, Mr. Nawaz, described the experience: “This line extends all the way to the railway line in Balkampet. We did not sleep, only had water. We will start taking rides after catching up with some sleep.”
The downpour on March 24 coincided with peak evening hours, worsening traffic conditions and leading to widespread disruptions across the city. Observers noted that the heavy rainfall not only affected daily commutes but also raised concerns about the potential for further weather-related incidents in the coming days.
As the city begins to recover from the storm, residents remain vigilant, with many hoping for clearer skies ahead. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any long-term impacts on local infrastructure or the economy due to this weather event.