Tauseef Ahmad
Srinagar, Mar 26: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday urged people not to rush to petrol pumps amid rumours of a possible fuel shortage, warning that panic buying could create an unnecessary crisis in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to the media in Srinagar, Abdullah said the government has received reports of long queues forming outside several fuel stations due to misinformation circulating among the public. He clarified that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel and appealed to people to remain calm.
“There is absolutely no need for panic. Fuel supplies are adequate, and people should avoid rushing to petrol pumps because of rumours,” he said.
The chief minister cautioned that if the rush continues and disrupts normal supply, the government may be compelled to temporarily shut petrol pumps to control the situation and prevent chaos.
Abdullah said the administration is closely monitoring the developments and coordinating with relevant authorities to ensure that fuel and other essential commodities remain available.
Referring to a meeting convened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said discussions would focus on the evolving situation in Iran and neighbouring regions, and its potential impact on supply chains.
He reassured residents that the government is prepared to take necessary steps to ensure uninterrupted availability of essential commodities if the situation in the region prolongs.
