Kulgam, March 26, KNT: Amid rumours of a fuel shortage, the district administration in south Kashmir’s Kulgam on Thursday sealed a petrol pump for allegedly hoarding fuel and refusing supply to consumers, officials said.
Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Aalam, accompanied by district officials, inspected the Fast ‘Track Petrol Pump’ and found the station shut with no staff present on site.
The action comes as authorities across the Valley move to counter panic buying and ensure an uninterrupted supply of fuel following unverified reports of shortages.
“We didn’t find anyone here, neither any manager nor any employee. One of the persons associated with the fuel station tried to make excuses for the shutdown,” Aalam told reporters.
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During the inspection, officials found 2,989 liters of petrol stored at the station despite it being closed to the public.
“We have sealed the fuel station and imposed a fine of Rs 50,000,” the Deputy Commissioner said, adding that strict action would be taken against such violations.
He warned that the administration will not allow any fuel station to operate if it prioritizes profit over public service.
“We won’t allow such fuel stations to operate in future if they prefer profit over service,” he said.
Aalam also issued a warning to all petrol pump owners in the district to remain open and ensure regular supply of fuel to the public.
He said inspection drives will continue to ensure compliance and prevent artificial shortages.
Reiterating that there is no shortage of fuel, the Deputy Commissioner urged people not to panic or resort to unnecessary stockpiling.
“There is sufficient stock of fuel available. People don’t need to worry,” he said.
The administration said it remains vigilant and will take strict action against hoarding or attempts to create artificial scarcity. [KNT]
