Srinagar, Apr 21: Amid concerns following the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway due to a cloudburst and flash floods near Ramban, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, V.K. Bidhuri, on Monday reassured the public that there is no shortage of essential commodities across the Valley.
“There is no issue regarding stock availability,” Bidhuri said. “LPG, petrol, diesel, and food grains are available in sufficient quantities. Our LPG stock is enough to meet the Valley’s needs for 17 days. In terms of diesel, we consume approximately 1,000 kilolitres daily, and currently have a stock of 12,500 kilolitres, which is sufficient for 12.5 days.”
He further added that petrol availability is equally stable. “With a daily consumption of around 625 kilolitres, our current stock of 10,000 kilolitres is enough to last 16 days.”
Bidhuri urged people not to panic or indulge in hoarding, assuring that supplies are stable and improving weather conditions are aiding restoration efforts. “There’s no need to queue unnecessarily at fuel stations. Live comfortably. While light rain is expected in the evening, there will be no strong winds or severe weather like yesterday,” he said.
On the traffic situation, Bidhuri said that the Mughal Road has been opened for one-way traffic for Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) and efforts are on to facilitate movement for Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) as well. He advised tourists and locals to check the traffic advisory before starting their journeys. “Safety is paramount. There is no logic in taking the risk when a clear signal has not been given for HMVs. LMVs are already plying, and as soon as clearance is given, HMVs will be allowed too,” he said.
Addressing concerns over the availability of fresh vegetables, Bidhuri noted that there could be slight delays, but there is no shortage of potatoes or other hard vegetables.
“District administrations have been instructed to strengthen market checking to control any black marketing. Some fringe elements might attempt hoarding or overpricing, but the administration is fully alert and monitoring the situation,” he added.
Speaking about the impact of the recent weather, Bidhuri admitted some damage to apple orchards in parts of Kulgam, Shopian, Kupwara, and Baramulla districts due to the recent rainfall, but also highlighted that water levels, which had reached 15 feet at Ram Munshi Bagh, are now receding.
“The overall situation is excellent. The water is receding, and there is no reason to panic. I urge people not to fall into the trap of hoarding or creating artificial demand. The administration is making continuous efforts to ensure smooth supply and traffic movement,” he concluded.
