'Do Not Hoard': Govt Says Fuel 'Adequately Available' After Viral Video Shows Man Buying Petrol In Water Bottle Amid Iran War

New Delhi: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Saturday issued an advisory for citizens as concerns over the availability of petrol and diesel is flaring up in the country amid the escalating war in the Middle East. The government has reiterated that there is no fuel shortage in the nation, adding that consumers should not resort to hoarding petrol and diesel in loose containers.

In a statement, the ministry said, “All petrol pumps across the country have adequate availability of petrol and diesel.” It flagged a recent incident at a retail outlet in Tamil Nadu, where petrol was being taken in a loose container by a customer.

The ministry said, “It has come to notice that at one retail outlet in Tamil Nadu, petrol was being taken in a loose container, which is unsafe and not advisable. The concerned petrol pump has been suspended, and appropriate action has been taken.”

This comes after the video of a consumer buying petrol in a water jar went viral on social media.

More such videos showed people standing in queues at pumps to buy petrol in small water bottles and other small containers.

The ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said, “Consumers are advised not to take or store petrol or any fuel in loose or inappropriate containers, as it poses serious safety risks…All retail outlets and dealers have been instructed to strictly follow safety guidelines while dispensing fuel. Any violation will invite strict action.”

LPG Shortage In India?

Amidst the escalating war between Israel-US and Iran and tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, there is mounting concerns in India over the shortage of LPG cylinders as well. However, the government has maintained that India’s crude and gas supply remains secure.

Recently, 32 cylinders were seized from a residence in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh, during a raid by local authorities. “An individual had kept 18 filled cylinders and 14 empty cylinders at his private residence,” District Supply Officer Seema Baliyan said.

Also Read- 'Shri Ram Ke Paas Bhi Cylinder Nahi Hai': Ashneer Grover Faces Backlash Over LPG Shortage Tweet