‘No fuel shortage in Kashmir’

Srinagar, Mar 11: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Wednesday said the Valley currently has more than 15 days of petrol and diesel stock and around 13 days of LPG reserves, assuring the public that the supply position of essential fuels is comfortable and closely monitored by authorities.

Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Garg said the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs is keeping a continuous watch on the stock position of petroleum products and LPG through its monitoring mechanism and control rooms.

According to the latest data available with the administration, the Kashmir Division has around 13 days of LPG stock and more than 15 days of petrol and diesel reserves.

He said the overall storage capacity can extend to around 15 to 20 days when filled to maximum capacity.

“As far as the present supply position is concerned, there are over 15 days of petrol and diesel available in the Kashmir Division and nearly 13 days of LPG stock. The overall position is comfortable,” Garg said.

Divisional Commissioner urged residents to rely only on official updates and avoid panic buying, noting that long queues witnessed at petrol pumps and gas distribution centres were largely driven by rumours and anxiety rather than an actual shortage.

“There is no need for panic buying. Both the Government of India and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir are closely monitoring the situation. Any decision or update will be officially communicated to the public,” he said.

Garg also clarified that the recent restriction introduced by the Union government applies only to certain categories of commercial LPG and does not affect domestic consumers.

“There is no LPG crisis in Kashmir. The restriction does not apply to domestic consumers, and it is also not applicable to hospitals or educational institutions,” he said.

The Divisional Commissioner said the administration is keeping a close watch on supply and distribution to ensure that the public does not face any inconvenience.

He also warned that hoarding and black marketing of essential fuels would not be tolerated. Deputy Commissioners across districts have been directed to constitute enforcement squads to monitor the market and take strict action against violations.

“These are essential commodities. Activities such as hoarding or black marketing will invite strict action,” Garg said, adding that fuel dealers and oil marketing companies have also been advised to ensure transparent and smooth distribution.

Citizens can report complaints regarding hoarding or irregularities through district control rooms or the Integrated Command and Control Centre in Srinagar, where immediate action will be taken, he added.

Garg also said there is currently no disruption in the movement of goods along the national highways that supply the Valley.

“In fact, our position is better compared to last year, when at one point the stock levels were very limited. As of now, the supply situation is stable,” he said.

Apart from fuel availability, the Divisional Commissioner said there is no shortage of essential commodities in the markets, particularly as the region observes the holy month of Ramadhan and prepares for Eid.

He said district administrations have intensified market inspections to ensure price stability and maintain food quality standards during the festive period.

Food safety teams, legal metrology departments and other enforcement agencies have increased inspections in recent weeks, and further checks will be carried out in the coming days.

Garg also appealed to the media and the public to help curb misinformation and avoid spreading panic.

“It is important that only correct and verified information reaches people. Any fake or panic-inducing news will be dealt with strictly,” he said.

The administration, he added, will continue to provide regular updates on the stock position and supply situation to keep the public informed.