Anantnag, Mar 26: Amid rumors of fuel and LPG shortage, the Deputy Commissioner (DC), Anantnag Dr. Bilal Mohiud Din Bhat convened a high-level meeting today with Petrol Pump owners and operators of IOCL, BPCL and HPCL besides representatives of various LPG agencies of the district, at Dak Bungalow, Khanabal.

The meeting, attended by the ADC, AD FCS&CA, and other senior officials, was aimed at assessing the current stock levels and ensuring the uninterrupted distribution of essential commodities.
The meeting was informed there is adequate stock of petrol, diesel, and LPG within the district and all supply lines remain fully functional and stable.
Explicit directions were issued to all operators to prevent any instances of hoarding or illegal profiteering and any agency found violating these norms would face legal action.
Operators were instructed to strictly comply with administrative guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maintain the supply chain.
The representatives from LPG agencies and petrol pumps assured the DC of their full cooperation in maintaining a steady supply for the public.
Addressing the public’s concerns, the DC appealed to citizens to avoid panic buying and refrain from hoarding fuel, which can potentially lead to uncomfortable situation for other consumers.
"There is no shortage of fuel or gas in the district so the public should not pay any heed to baseless rumors. We are monitoring the situation closely, and the supply position is comfortable," the DC stated.
Meanwhile, the district administration has taken a serious note of misinformation being spread on social media. The authorities warned that rumor mongers and fake news peddlers attempting to create artificial scarcity will be dealt with under the law.
Residents are advised to rely solely on official communications and follow advisories issued by the district administration.