Fuel Panic Grips Srinagar as Rumours Spark Rush at Petrol Pumps

Srinagar, April 21 : A wave of panic buying swept across Srinagar on Monday as rumours of an impending fuel shortage led to massive queues at petrol pumps throughout the city.

The sudden surge in demand was reportedly triggered by social media posts claiming a disruption in fuel supply to the Kashmir Valley. Several petrol stations saw long lines of vehicles, with many residents rushing to fill up their tanks.

One petrol pump owner noted that the unusual crowd started gathering soon after the posts went viral. “There was no issue until these rumours spread online,” he said.

Officials have dismissed the shortage rumours, assuring the public that fuel stocks are adequate. A government spokesperson clarified that a temporary supply delay occurred due to a landslide in the Ramban area, but the situation has since returned to normal.

Authorities have appealed to the public to stay calm and refrain from spreading or acting on misinformation.