Munish Sood
Mandi

The administration of Lahaul-Spiti has reassured its residents that there is no fuel shortage in the district, despite reports indicating that the Upasak Filling Station in Keylong had halted distribution, even though sufficient stock was available.

Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana, who also chairs the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), along with DSP Rashmi Sharma, promptly addressed the situation by issuing directives. Utilizing the Disaster Management Act and the Essential Commodities Act, the administration has served a notice to the filling station management, mandating the immediate resumption of fuel distribution.

Firm Stance Against Hoarding and Black-Marketing

The Deputy Commissioner cautioned that any attempts to hoard or engage in black-marketing of essential goods would lead to severe legal repercussions. She stated, “There is an ample supply of fuel in the district. Any disruption in distribution will not be tolerated, particularly during these trying times,” while insisting that fuel distribution must be fair for all residents.

The administration has made it clear that filling stations are prohibited from withholding supplies during emergencies, as consistent fuel availability is crucial for transportation, relief efforts, and public convenience.

Implementation of Disaster Management Protocols

This action is part of broader disaster management efforts across Himachal Pradesh, where monsoon-related disasters have prompted strict enforcement of regulations to ensure the steady supply of essential goods. District authorities have been granted powers under the Disaster Management Act to effectively respond to such emergencies, with the DDMA acting as the primary body for coordinating relief and managing resources.

The administration highlighted that the Essential Commodities Act serves to prevent price gouging and guarantees equitable distribution of vital items, including petroleum products. These legal frameworks empower authorities to act swiftly against any artificially created shortages during crises.

Public Advisory

Residents are encouraged to disregard rumors about fuel shortages and to rely solely on official announcements. The Deputy Commissioner has urged citizens to report any instances of black-marketing or unethical practices to the administration, fostering a collective effort to protect essential supplies during this critical time.