Srinagar, March 26 Petrol pumps across Kashmir witnessed panic buying on Thursday as rumors of a fuel shortage spread amid the West Asia conflict, even as authorities assured that sufficient quantities of essential supplies were available, officials said.
People flocked to fuel stations in Srinagar city and other parts of the Valley with their vehicles, cans, and bottles, leading to long queues.
Many fuel stations were closed and were turning people away, saying that their pumps were out of fuel.
In many places, people had to wait for hours to fill up the fuel tanks of their vehicles.
"I had to wait over an hour for my turn because there was a huge rush. But I finally managed to fill petrol in my car," said Owais Ahmad from Srinagar.
Ahmad said there were rumors that due to the conflict in West Asia, fuel supply was short, and there could be a lockdown in the country due to an "energy crisis."
"Social media is full of such rumors. It has created panic among the people. And whenever there is such a panic, the people of Kashmir turn up at the petrol pumps first," he said.
A petrol pump owner in Ganderbal district said people were "unnecessarily creating panic" and resorting to panic buying, forcing many fuel stations to close.
"There is no supply shortage. There is sufficient fuel, but we had to close the pump because of the huge rush and panic among the public. Some petrol pumps and fuel agencies are limiting sales to ensure adequate stock," he said.
The authorities have urged people to remain calm and avoid panic buying.
"Sufficient quantities of LPG and petroleum products are available across the Valley. They are being replenished regularly to ensure an uninterrupted supply," said Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg.
He urged the public not to be swayed by rumors, reiterating that there is no shortage of fuel.
Garg warned of stringent legal action against individuals who spread misinformation or attempt to incite unnecessary panic among the public.
District authorities across the Valley carried out a review of the situation and appealed to people to avoid unnecessary rush at petrol pumps to ensure smooth distribution for all.