Srinagar, Mar 26 — Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday cautioned that panic buying of fuel could lead to temporary shutdown of petrol pumps, even as he assured that supplies of petrol and diesel remain adequate.
“There is no shortage of petrol or diesel,” Abdullah said, urging people not to rush to fuel stations. He warned that continued crowding driven by rumours could force the administration to “temporarily shut petrol pumps to manage the situation.”
The Chief Minister said the administration is closely monitoring developments and reiterated his appeal to the public to avoid misinformation. “People should rely only on official information and not act on rumours,” he said.
His remarks come after long queues were reported at fuel stations across parts of the Kashmir Valley, particularly in Srinagar, on Wednesday. Residents lined up at pumps amid speculation of an impending shortage.
“I came to the petrol pump after hearing from a friend that there may be a shortage of petrol in the coming days,” said Firdous Ahmad, a Srinagar resident.
Fuel station operators reported a surge in demand but said the situation remained under control. “We have been trying our best to advise people against panic buying. In South Kashmir, there was a brief rush at fuel stations, but the situation was managed,” said a fuel pump owner.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg said authorities are maintaining sufficient stock and keeping a close watch. “We are continuously monitoring the situation and maintaining sufficient stock. There is no need for panic,” he said.
He also warned of action against those spreading misinformation. “My message to the public is to rely only on official sources for accurate information,” Garg added.
Abdullah also referred to a meeting convened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the situation in Iran and neighbouring regions, saying discussions would include measures to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities if required.