Fuel rush reported across parts of Valley amid rumours
Irfan Yattoo
Srinagar: The administration on Wednesday ruled out any plan to impose a lockdown in Kashmir, even as panic buying of fuel was reported from several parts of Srinagar following rumours circulating on social media.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg said there is no proposal under consideration and urged people not to be swayed by unverified information.
“There is no such decision. If anything of that nature is contemplated, it will be conveyed through official channels. People should remain calm,” he said.
He said the government is maintaining close oversight of essential supplies across the Valley, adding that stocks of food items, fuel, and other necessities are sufficient.
“Supply chains are functioning normally, and there is no disruption. There is absolutely no need for panic,” he said.
The clarification came even as long queues were seen outside petrol pumps in several localities, with residents rushing to stock fuel.
Eyewitnesses reported heavy footfall at stations in both uptown and downtown areas, with some people carrying cans and containers amid fears of a shortage.
“There was a sudden spike in rush. People were not just filling their vehicles but also stocking extra fuel,” said Ali Mohammad, a commuter in the city centre.
He said long queues grew rapidly after rumours began circulating early in the day.
Officials attributed the situation to panic-driven behaviour rather than any actual shortage.
“There is no deficit in fuel supply. The pressure at pumps is due to sudden demand triggered by rumours,” an official said, adding that supplies remain stable.
The Divisional Commissioner warned that strict action would be taken against those found spreading misinformation. “We are monitoring the situation and necessary action will follow against rumour-mongers. People must rely only on verified sources,” he said.
On the overall situation, the administration said the security scenario remains unchanged and is being reviewed regularly in coordination with police and other agencies.
Authorities also maintained that normal life continues, including tourist activity, with major destinations open and witnessing a steady inflow. The administration said arrangements are in place to handle the ongoing tourist season smoothly.
The rumours, which gained traction over the past 24 hours, had triggered anxiety among residents and led to crowding at fuel stations in parts of Srinagar.
Faisal Ahmad, a resident of Rajbagh, said that there was a sudden surge since morning. People were filling whatever containers they could find,” said “I came just to refill my bike, but seeing the rush, I thought it’s better to take extra fuel, he said.
At another fuel station, Shabir Lone from Bemina said rumours spread rapidly through messaging apps.
“Someone said there could be restrictions in the next few days. Within minutes, everyone started heading to petrol pumps. The queues became very long,” he said.
