By Neeraj KumarÂ
Patna: The Bihar Police Headquarters has issued strict directives to all District Magistrates (DMs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) across the state amid concerns that the ongoing tensions and conflict between Iran and Israel could disrupt the international supply of petroleum products.
In an official communication, the headquarters instructed district administrations to exercise heightened vigilance to ensure uninterrupted supply of LPG, petrol and diesel. Authorities have also been directed to take immediate and stringent action against hoarding and black marketing.
The letter stated that the current global situation could lead to a reduction in the supply of petroleum products. As a result, there is a possibility of shortages of LPG cylinders, petrol and diesel within the state.
Officials warned that in such circumstances, crowds may gather at gas agencies, petrol pumps and fuel outlets, potentially leading to disorder or law-and-order issues. There are also concerns that some anti-social elements may attempt to hoard fuel or engage in black marketing.
All DMs and SPs have been instructed to maintain continuous surveillance around LPG agencies, petrol pumps and fuel vendors in their respective districts. Adequate police personnel should be deployed to maintain order, while hoarders and black marketeers must be closely monitored and dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.
The headquarters also directed district administrations to coordinate closely with the Supply Department. If necessary, authorities should inform the public about the actual situation to prevent the spread of rumours and avoid unnecessary panic.
A senior Bihar Police official said the directive is part of precautionary preparations. Rising tensions in the Middle East have caused fluctuations in global crude oil prices, which could impact petroleum supply in the country.
Police have also ordered increased patrolling around petrol pumps and LPG agencies across districts. The intelligence wing has been directed to act immediately upon receiving information about hoarding.
Officials noted that Bihar has witnessed several cases of black marketing during previous fuel shortages, and therefore preventive measures are being taken this time to avert any such situation.
About the Author
