Panic Fuel Purchases in Kashmir Following Highway Closure Due to Landslides
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Synopsis
Srinagar experiences a wave of panic fuel purchases as motorists rush to filling stations following the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar highway due to landslides. Authorities assure sufficient petrol and diesel stocks exist, but fears of supply shortages prevail.
Key Takeaways
- Jammu-Srinagar highway closed due to landslides.
- Panic buying of petrol and diesel reported.
- Authorities confirm 17-day fuel supply.
- Traffic department advises against travel.
- Significant highway damage reported in Ramban.
Srinagar, April 21 (NationPress) In spite of promises from officials regarding ample supplies of petrol and diesel in Kashmir for the next 17 days, the shutdown of the Jammu-Srinagar highway led to a rush of motorists at various fuel stations on Monday, eager to fill their vehicles' tanks.
The substantial damage to a section of the national highway in Ramban district over the weekend has sparked wild rumors about how long it will take to restore access.
Authorities in the traffic department have advised travelers to avoid the Srinagar-Jammu highway today as repair efforts are underway on the damaged stretch of the road.
Speculation in the Valley suggests that the repairs might take up to 10 days.
Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, the divisional commissioner for Kashmir, has reassured the public that there are sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel in the Valley for the next 17 days.
However, this assurance seems to have been ignored as trucks, buses, load carriers, jeeps, SUVs, cars, and two-wheelers lined up outside numerous filling stations in Srinagar and throughout the Valley to fill up.
“This surge in demand from panic buyers is more than three times our usual daily intake,” stated Noor Mohammad, an attendant at a filling station in Ganderbal district.
Recent cloudbursts, hailstorms, and continuous rainfall have caused landslides in Ramban district, resulting in three fatalities and the rescue of 100 individuals.
Significant portions of the Jammu-Srinagar highway were obliterated, with landslides sweeping away some vehicles.
Officials reported, “The flash floods have severely damaged a four to five km section of the Jammu-Ramban Road (NH-44). The highway has suffered damage at five locations, leaving numerous passenger vehicles, trucks, and oil tankers stranded.”
It is essential to note that all essential supplies, including petroleum products, are transported into the isolated Valley via the Jammu-Srinagar highway.
