Petrol shortage hits Srinagar
Srinagar, Sep 15: Following weeks of disruption on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, the summer capital is reeling under an acute petrol shortage.
Commuters said that scores of petrol pumps across Srinagar remained closed since Sunday, displaying handwritten notices reading “No Petrol”. Long queues amid a shortage of petrol were witnessed in the city centre, Hazratbal, Downtown, and other areas outside some petrol pumps since Sunday.
Commuters and residents said that they are facing mounting problems as the petrol shortage deepens.
Vehicles were seen queuing up at the few pumps still dispensing fuel; many of those outlets too ran dry after hours-long rush. “I went to multiple petrol pumps, including Batapora and Habak, but everywhere the answer was the same. This is the third day I am trying to get fuel but in vain,” said Numaan Mir, a commuter from Hazratbal.
The panic has triggered a scramble for storage. Residents were spotted holding bottles, cans, and even drums to fill whatever they could. “Someone informed me that petrol was available in another district, so I travelled there just to keep a few litres for emergencies. We have patients at home and may need to rush to the hospital anytime,” said Shabir Ahmad, a local from Downtown.
The shortage has also thrown wedding preparations and construction work into disarray. With marriage season at its peak, families rely heavily on vehicles for errands and on petrol-run generators for lighting and music at functions. “My son’s wedding is next week. Vehicles are necessary for carrying guests and supplies, and the lighting for the event runs on a generator so I am really worried,” said Abdul Ahad, a resident of Uptown Srinagar.
The locals said that even ongoing construction has taken a hit. “I have tile work at my home in Hazratbal and had to stop because workers needed a generator for cutting tiles, which runs on petrol,” said Bashir Ahmad, who is building his new house.
Petrol pump owners, meanwhile, urged people to remain calm. “Fresh supplies are expected today itself. People panic and rush to pumps, which worsens the shortage,” said a pump owner.
Amid growing public concern, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Monday said that while LPG and diesel stocks are sufficient, petrol supplies have been hit due to the highway closure. “We expect petrol to be refilled within two days. Restoration work on the national highway is going on day and night, and we are hopeful it will be fully operational within the next two days,” he assured.
