Srinagar, Mar 02: Amid reports of panic buying across parts of the Valley following the Middle East crisis, fuel companies on Sunday clarified that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel in Kashmir and that their storage depots are fully stocked.
Officials from Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited and Indian Oil Corporation Limited said supply lines are functioning normally and there is enough fuel available to meet public demand.
A representative of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited told Rising Kashmir that there is no reason for concern. “Our depot is full, and we have sufficient stock to cater to all districts. There is absolutely no shortage. We request people not to panic or rush to fuel stations unnecessarily,” he said, adding that regular tanker movement is taking place and retail outlets are being supplied as per schedule.
Officials from Indian Oil Corporation Limited also assured the public that the situation is normal. “There is no fuel shortage anywhere in Kashmir. Our depot is full, and supplies are stable. People should avoid panic buying because it only creates temporary pressure at pumps,” an IOCL representative said. He added that oil companies are closely monitoring the situation to ensure smooth distribution.
Despite these assurances, long queues were seen at several petrol pumps in the Valley. Many residents said they rushed to refill their vehicles after hearing rumours of a possible shortage.
At a fuel station in Lal Chowk, vehicles were lined up for several meters. “We heard from others that fuel might run out, so I came to fill my car tank,” said Aamir Ahmad, a resident of Srinagar. “If the companies are saying stock is full, then there is no need for panic.”
Similar scenes were reported from south Kashmir. “People are filling extra fuel out of fear,” said Shabir Ahmad, a shopkeeper in Anantnag. “But the pump staff clearly told us they are getting a regular supply.”
A petrol pump manager in north Kashmir said deliveries have not been disrupted. “We received our usual stock. The rush is only because of rumours, not because of any shortage,” he said.
Officials urged the public to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports. They said unnecessary panic buying can create artificial scarcity at retail outlets even when overall stocks are adequate. Authorities expect the situation at fuel stations to stabilise soon as people regain confidence in the supply system.
