Amid reports of panic buying across parts of the Union Territory, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday warned that petrol pumps could be temporarily shut if people continue to rely on rumours circulating on social media.
“It is very unfortunate that instead of believing repeated assurances from the authorities that there is no shortage of LPG, petrol, or diesel, people are thronging petrol pumps due to fake rumours being spread online,” the chief minister said while interacting with media persons in Jammu.
He said that just three days ago, a high-level meeting was convened to review the availability of essential commodities, after which it was clearly stated that there was no shortage of fuel in Jammu and Kashmir. “The situation has not changed within these three days, so there is absolutely no reason to panic,” he added.
The Chief Minister further stated that the Union Government is continuously monitoring the situation, and no directives have been issued regarding rationing of fuel or LPG. “There is no indication of any shortage,” he reiterated.
Urging people not to rush to fuel stations, Abdullah cautioned that panic-driven crowding could disrupt the normal supply chain. He appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid forming long queues outside petrol pumps.
“If such unnecessary rush continues due to misinformation, the government may be compelled to temporarily shut petrol pumps to regulate the situation,” he warned.
He assured that the administration is closely monitoring developments and that fuel supplies remain adequate across the Union Territory.
The Chief Minister also referred to a recent meeting convened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to review the situation in Iran and neighbouring regions, stating that discussions included measures to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, if required.
Reiterating his appeal, Abdullah urged citizens to rely only on official communication and refrain from spreading or acting upon unverified information.
Petrol Pump Sealed in Kulgam for Violations
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Shahzad Alam said that a petrol pump in the district has been sealed for violating established norms, adding that an FIR will be registered against the owner.
He said the action was taken as part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and fairness in the distribution of essential commodities.
“There is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG in the district. All 21 functional filling stations are adequately stocked to meet the demand,” he said.
The Deputy Commissioner urged the public not to rush to select outlets, as it leads to unnecessary congestion and panic. He advised people to make use of all available petrol pumps instead of crowding a few locations.
Alam also appealed to citizens to ignore rumours regarding shortages and assured that the administration is maintaining strict vigilance to ensure smooth and uninterrupted supply.
He called for public cooperation in maintaining order and discipline across the district.
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