Amritsar is grappling with a severe shortage of cash and fuel as automated teller machines (ATMs) and petrol pumps across the city have run dry, causing significant inconvenience to residents and disrupting daily life. The crisis has left many people struggling to access money for their daily needs and find fuel for their vehicles.
Cash Crunch Hits ATMs
Several ATMs in Amritsar have displayed 'out of cash' signs for the past few days, forcing residents to travel long distances in search of working machines. Long queues have been witnessed outside the few ATMs that are still dispensing cash, with people waiting for hours to withdraw money. The shortage has particularly affected daily wage workers and small business owners who rely on cash transactions.
A local resident, Rajesh Kumar, expressed his frustration: "I have visited five ATMs today, but all of them were either out of cash or not working. I need money for my household expenses, but there is no way to get it."
Fuel Stations Run Dry
In addition to the cash crunch, petrol pumps in Amritsar are also facing a shortage of fuel, leading to long queues of vehicles waiting to refuel. Many pumps have shut down temporarily due to lack of supply, leaving motorists stranded. The fuel crisis has impacted transportation services, including auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses, causing delays and cancellations.
"I have been waiting in line for over two hours to get petrol. My car is almost empty, and I need to reach the office urgently," said a commuter, Amanpreet Singh. The shortage has also affected emergency services, with ambulances and police vehicles finding it difficult to get fuel.
Reasons Behind the Crisis
Officials attribute the cash shortage to a disruption in the supply of currency notes from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to banks in the region. Meanwhile, the fuel crisis is being linked to a delay in the arrival of tankers due to roadblocks and logistical issues. Authorities have assured that steps are being taken to restore normalcy soon.
"We are working to replenish cash at ATMs and ensure fuel supply to petrol pumps. The situation should improve within the next 24 to 48 hours," said a district administration official.
Impact on Daily Life
The twin crises have severely impacted daily life in Amritsar. Shops and markets are witnessing reduced footfall as customers lack cash to make purchases. Many small businesses have been forced to accept digital payments, but not all are equipped to do so. The fuel shortage has also led to an increase in the prices of essential commodities due to transportation difficulties.
Residents have urged the authorities to resolve the issue at the earliest. "The government should ensure that there is no shortage of cash and fuel in the city. It is causing a lot of problems for common people," said a local shopkeeper.
As the city awaits relief, the administration has advised people to use digital payment methods where possible and to conserve fuel. The situation remains tense, with many hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis.
