Shortage of petrol, LPG:People hoarding fuel adds to scarcity: Admn

Srinagar, Mar 2: Administration in Kashmir Saturday held the people responsible for the current scarcity of essentials alleging that the residents have resorted to amassing “more than they need”.
Kashmir, during the last one week, has been facing scarcity of essentials especially fuel for cooking and driving vehicles.
The authorities blame bad weather and intermittent closure of the highway for the shortage.
On Wednesday, the divisional administration assured people that sufficient quantity of essentials had arrived in the valley.
However, the scenes at filling stations and LPG outlets were contrary to the claim as the revived supply ran out in a few hours.
Ask why the situation hadn’t improved despite the arrival of essentials, the divisional administration blamed the people.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Baseer Ahmad Khan told The Kashmir Monitor: “We understand that people faced a great deal of inconvenience due to the shortage of essentials. When the supply came, there was bound to be a huge rush.
The problem is people have taken more than they actually needed, be it petrol or LPG cylinders. It has created a crisis-like situation. Arrangements are in place and essentials will be delivered soon. Today, we have arranged for more supplies and it is in the process. We will ensure that the essentials last for a longer period of time,” the Div Com said.
Seconding him, District Commissioner Srinagar, Shahid Chowdhary too blamed valleyites for “not adhering” to the regulations given by the divisional administration.
“Yesterday, while traveling to home from office, I saw a guy at the filling station carrying 15 cans with him. This is insensitive on people’s part. If the divisional administration has rationed for four litres of petrol at a time, then the public should adhere to it,” he said.
He claimed that several petrol pumps engaged in “malpractice” by doling out more fuel than regulated by the administration.
“Despite, issuing advisories and notices, some people have taken petrol in bulk. We already fined two petrol pumps for the violation of rules,” he said.
“In a war-like situation, there is mismanagement at essential outlets. People should try to be more empathetic and see how they can help others who are facing a difficult situation like them. I am sure if this approach is adopted, there won’t be a scarcity of essentials,” he added.
In the last one week or so, there have been widespread complaints about shortage of LPG cylinders, petrol, fresh vegetables and other essential commodities in the market.