Says “No shortage of fuel, LPG, or essentials”
“Ignore rumours and avoid crowding”
PM to hold meeting with CMs today
Irfan Yattoo
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday issued a stern warning against panic buying and crowding at fuel stations, saying the government may be forced to temporarily shut petrol pumps if the situation does not improve.
Addressing reporters, the Chief Minister Omar reiterated that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, LPG or other essential commodities, and urged people not to fall prey to rumours circulating on social media.
“My earnest request is that people stop camping outside petrol pumps. If this situation continues, I may be forced to shut all petrol pumps for the next few days until this cycle of rumours stops,” he said.
The warning comes amid long queues reported at several fuel stations across parts of Jammu and Kashmir, triggered by misinformation and fears of supply disruption.
CM Omar cautioned that unnecessary crowding, despite repeated assurances from authorities, could create avoidable complications.
“If people keep gathering outside petrol pumps based on rumours, it will unnecessarily create problems where none exist,” he said.
He emphasised that the administration has thoroughly reviewed the supply position and found no reason for concern.
“As of now, there is no shortage of anything, whether it is fuel, LPG, or other essential items. There is no need for rationing or restrictions,” he added.
Expressing concern over panic-driven behaviour, the Chief Minister said such actions could themselves lead to artificial shortages.
“It is unfortunate that while official statements are ignored, rumours gain traction. There is absolutely no directive to limit consumption,” he said.
CM Omar also informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting with chief ministers on Friday to review preparedness in view of the evolving situation in West Asia and its potential impact on supply chains.
“The meeting will focus on the situation in Iran and neighbouring regions, and on steps being taken to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities,” he said.
On reports of Pakistan offering to mediate in the ongoing West Asia tensions, Abdullah said any initiative that contributes to ending the conflict should be welcomed.
“What matters most is that the war ends and stability returns to the region,” he said.
Reiterating his appeal, the Chief Minister urged people to maintain calm and rely only on official information, assuring that fuel supplies remain stable and sufficient across the Union Territory.
