The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued an advisory for citizens after a video showing a man filling a plastic water jar with fuel at a Tamil Nadu petrol pump went viral. The ministry has assured that “Petrol and diesel are adequately available at retail outlets across the country.”
The ministry further added, “Consumers are advised not to take or store fuel in loose or inappropriate containers, as it poses serious safety risks. Retail outlets have been instructed to strictly follow safety guidelines while dispensing fuel, and any violation will invite strict action.”
Addressing the viral video, the ministry stated, “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. Consumers are advised not to take or store petrol or any fuel in loose or inappropriate containers, as it poses serious safety risks.”
The statement further informed that the concerned “petrol pump has been suspended, and appropriate action has been taken.”
{{/usCountry}}The statement further informed that the concerned “petrol pump has been suspended, and appropriate action has been taken.”
{{/usCountry}}“All retail outlets and dealers have been instructed to strictly follow safety guidelines while dispensing fuel. Any violation will invite strict action.”
What did social media say?
An individual commented, “Finally, some calm communication instead of panic.” Another added, “All those who are hoarding and black marketing should be severely punished.”
A third posted, “Authorities had to issue this because some people started hoarding at the slightest rumour.” A fourth wrote, “There are many petrol pumps in Tamil Nadu dispensing petrol in plastic bottles and containers. Please take action against them.”
Also Read: The Shri Ram School warns of ‘no lunch’ possibility due to LPG shortage: ‘Left with 2 days stock’
Widespread rumours of a fuel shortage linked to the West Asia conflict have allegedly led to a massive spike in the sale of induction stoves. A shop owner in Vizag claimed that demand has surged nearly 50-fold, as he struggles to keep up with sales that have climbed from 3 units to 100 daily.
While moving toward electric appliances is a sensible precaution, some consumers are taking dangerous shortcuts. The emergence of videos showing people cooking with immersion rods is particularly concerning. These rods are not designed for culinary use; using them in food is a recipe for disaster, posing a lethal risk of electric shock and fire.