Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Jan 16: In a significant enforcement drive, the Legal Metrology Department of Jammu and Kashmir, under the supervision of Anuradha Gupta, Controller Legal Metrology J&K, sealed 30 illegal fuel outlets across seven districts of the Kashmir valley. These outlets were found violating key provisions of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, and Petroleum Rules, posing risks to consumer safety and public welfare.
Specially constituted teams carried out simultaneous inspections in Budgam, Bandipora, Baramulla, Pulwama, Shopian, Srinagar and Anantnag districts. The inspections revealed that these outlets were operating without authorization from Oil Marketing Companies or the Petroleum and Safety Organization. Moreover, the fuel dispensing units were using unverified nozzles and tampered measuring devices, leading to irregularities in fuel delivery to consumers.
According to the Department, the lack of certification and checks on these nozzles compromised the accuracy of the fuel quantities being dispensed. Furthermore, the outlets failed to comply with safety standards mandated by the Petroleum Rules, including Rule 141 and associated provisions.
“These illegal operations not only jeopardize public safety but also violate consumer rights by compromising the transparency and accuracy of fuel distribution,” stated Anuradha Gupta. “We received numerous complaints from consumers about short delivery and overcharging. Based on these reports, special inspection teams were deployed to take stringent action against violators. Such drives will continue to ensure compliance and deter future violations.”
The sealed outlets now face legal proceedings under the relevant sections of the Legal Metrology Act and Petroleum Rules. Gupta also urged consumers to report any instances of short delivery or overcharging at fuel stations and advised them to purchase fuel only from authorized outlets.
The Legal Metrology Department reiterated its appeal to the public to remain vigilant and cooperate in identifying and reporting illegal operations to safeguard consumer interests and promote fair trade practices.
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