Editorial photo #13494301 Economy, Business and Finance
Fear Of Fuel Shortage Triggers Panic Buying In Kashmir, India
Diesel (right) and petrol (left) pump nozzles are seen at an Indian Oil Corporation fuel station in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, on March 25, 2026. Concerns over potential supply disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran have led to long queues at petrol pumps across Kashmir amid rumors of a possible lockdown. Authorities state there are no shortages. The panic buying is driven by concerns over disruptions in global oil supply, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a key transit route for a significant share of India's crude imports. Recent data suggests that roughly 40% of India's oil imports have traditionally passed through this route, making it highly sensitive to geopolitical tensions. (Photo by Firdous Nazir/NurPhoto)