SRINAGAR, JANUARY 16 : In a major enforcement drive, the Legal Metrology Department (LMD) of Jammu and Kashmir, under the supervision of Controller Anuradha Gupta, sealed 30 illegal fuel stations across Kashmir Valley in a single day.
These outlets were found violating the provisions of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, and the Petroleum Rules. This action was part of a broader effort to ensure consumer protection and adherence to legal standards. Special teams were formed and deployed in seven districts, including Budgam, Bandipora, Baramulla, Pulwama, Shopian, Srinagar, and Anantnag, where these unauthorized petrol pumps were operating. Inspections revealed that these outlets were running without proper authorization from Oil Marketing Companies or the Petroleum and Safety Organization.
The fuel-dispensing nozzles in use were unverified and uncertified by the Legal Metrology Department, raising concerns over inaccurate fuel measurements. The department noted that without proper checks and certifications, consumers were at risk of receiving incorrect quantities of petrol or diesel.
As a result, the dispensing units at these outlets were sealed, and legal cases were registered against the operators under the applicable sections of the Legal Metrology Act and Petroleum Rules. According to the Controllerโs order, these illegal pumps were found breaching Sections 12, 24, 26, and 30 of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, as well as Rule 141 of the Petroleum Rules.
Such violations not only compromise consumer interests but also pose serious safety risks due to non-compliance with essential safety protocols. These illegal operations failed to meet the standards required for the safe handling and storage of flammable substances like petrol and diesel. The lack of proper safety measures and transparency in operations further endangered public safety.
Controller Anuradha Gupta emphasized that the Legal Metrology Department will continue conducting such enforcement drives to deter violations and ensure accountability. She urged consumers to purchase fuel only from authorized outlets and report any irregularities, such as short deliveries, to the department.
The department also appealed to the public for their cooperation in identifying and curbing illegal fuel activities to ensure fairness and safety in fuel distribution across the region.
