Madhubani District Administration Reassures Public on Fuel Supply
In response to widespread rumors about potential fuel shortages, the district administration in Madhubani has released an official public advisory to address concerns and maintain order. The notice firmly states that petrol and diesel supplies across the district are operating normally, with no indications of any shortage whatsoever.
Administration Warns Against Panic Buying and Hoarding
The advisory strongly discourages citizens from engaging in panic buying or hoarding fuel, emphasizing the severe risks associated with such behavior. It specifically highlights the dangers of storing or transporting fuel in unauthorized containers, which can lead to accidents and safety hazards.
The administration has appealed to all residents to rely exclusively on official information sources and to maintain a calm and responsible demeanor. "Your patience and responsible conduct will help ensure the safety of everyone," the notice emphasized, underscoring the collective effort needed to prevent unnecessary chaos.
Legal Framework and Continuous Monitoring
To reinforce its message, the advisory draws attention to relevant legal statutes that govern fuel handling. These include:
- The Petroleum Act of 1934, particularly Sections 3, 4, and 5.
- The Petroleum Rules of 2002.
These laws strictly regulate the storage, transport, and handling of petroleum products, with violations potentially leading to legal consequences. The administration has assured the public of continuous monitoring efforts to maintain smooth fuel distribution throughout the district, aiming to prevent any disruptions.
Background on Recent Fuel Station Closures
Despite the administration's reassurances, reports from last Sunday indicated that several fuel stations in Madhubani town were either closed or not supplying petrol. This situation contributed to the perception of a possible shortage among residents.
For instance, Lalan Sharma, a resident of Malangia village, noted that on Sunday, petrol was only available at a fuel station in Laheriaganj. However, even that station ceased refueling bikes and cars by the afternoon, further fueling public anxiety.
The administration's advisory seeks to counteract these impressions by clarifying that such incidents are isolated and not indicative of a broader supply issue. Citizens are urged to ignore rumors and continue using fuel as usual, trusting in the official channels for updates.
