Kashmir Fast

Legal Metrology Department, J&K Cracks Down on Illegal Petrol Pumps; 30 Unauthorized Petrol Pumps sealed in Kashmir Valley in a single day

Srinagar, Jan 16, CNS: In a significant enforcement drive, Legal Metrology under the close supervision of Anuradha Gupta, Controller Legal Metrology J&K sealed 30 outlets today which were found selling petrol and Diesel in violation of the Legal Metrology Act 2009. This action was taken as part of a comprehensive effort to protect the consumer interest by ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Legal Metrology Act and Petroleum Rules. The specially constituted teams of the Legal Metrology Department carried out simultaneous inspections in seven districts of Kashmir division where these outlets were operating illegally.

Earlier, special inspection teams were constituted for this purpose by way of a special orderissued by the Controller, Legal Metrology and intensive inspection drives were carried out by the respective teams today during which it was found that these illegal fuel outlets were violating key legal standards and regulatory norms, including the use of unverified Nozzles and tempering with the measuring devices. It was observed that these fuel dispensing units were operating without any authorisation either from the Oil Marketing Companies or the Petroleum and Safety Organization and the Nozzles which were used for delivering fuel to Consumers were found without any verification from the Legal Metrology Department. The quantity of Petrol or Diesel which was paid by the Consumers was not guaranteed to them in absence of the certification and checks by the concerned agencies. In light of these facts all such dispending units were sealed today in Budgam, Bandipora, Baramulla, Pulwama, Shopian, Srinagar and Anantnag.

Cases have been registered against the owners/operators of these sealed petrol pumps and legal proceedings under the relevant sections of the Legal Metrology Act and Petroleum Rules are underway. The Order issued by Anuradha Gupta has mentioned that there are reports of variousoutlets operating in Kashmir valley in contravention of Section 24, Section 12, Section 30 and Section 26 of Legal Metrology Act 2009 which not only goes against the interest of Consumers but they also pose a serious hazard to the public safety as they are operating without any safety standards required from Petroleum and Safety Organisation.

The order further reads that these outlets are operating in violation of the terms and conditions laid down under Rule 141 of Petroleum Rules and the allied From XIII & Article 4 therein and this non-compliance with the Legal Metrology Act and the rules therefore compromises with the transparency and consumer interest.

The breach of Petroleum Rules further jeopardizes the safe handling and storage of flammable substances like Petrol and Diesel.Anuradha Gupta Said, " The Legal Metrology has been receiving complaints of short delivery and overcharging from the aggrieved consumers. It was found that these outlets were operating illegally. Therefore, special teams were constituted to inspect and take action under law. We will continue such drives to ensure compliance and deter future violations. Consumers are also advised to get fuel from authorised outlets only,”. The department urges consumers to be vigilant and report any short delivery at fuel stations to the department. The cooperation of Consumers is vital in curbing illegal operations and ensuring fair and safe fuel distribution.It is pertinent to mention that Legal Metrology Department also had a major crackdown on the illegal helmet sellers across all districts of Jammu and Kashmir during which about 5000 helmets were seized for not specifying the legal requirements. (CNS)

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Mahila Congress District President Kupwara Sheikh Tahira Celebrates Guru Gobind Jayanti with Heartfelt Greetings

Kupwara Jan 06– In a warm and spirited celebration, Sheikh Tahira Bashir, the Mahila Congress District President Kupwara, extended her heartfelt greetings to the community on the auspicious occasion of 10th Guru Gobind Singh Ji's birth anniversary.

In her message, Sheikh Tahira said, “Today, we celebrate not just the birth of a great Guru, but also the values he stood for—courage, equality, and selflessness. His teachings inspire us to strive for a better society, where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.”

Gathering with members of the community, Sheikh Tahira emphasized the importance of unity and brotherhood, echoing the Guru’s message of inclusiveness. “Guru Gobind Singh Ji taught us the power of standing together. Let’s honor his legacy by fostering a spirit of harmony and cooperation in our daily lives,” she added.

The celebrations included prayers, as well as discussions on how the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji can guide us in today’s world. Sheikh Tahira encouraged everyone to reflect on the Guru’s teachings and implement them in their actions, saying, “Let’s commit to living out the principles of compassion and justice that Guru Ji embodied.”

As the community comes together to celebrate this significant day, Sheikh Tahira invites everyone to join in spreading love and positivity, ensuring that the spirit of Guru Gobind Singh Ji continues to thrive in Kupwara District and beyond.