The Electronics and Information Technology department of the Kerala government is acting fast
to contain and prevent the spread of rumours on fuel scarcity in the wake of devastating floods.
The department on Saturday asked fuel outlets to accord top priority to the requirements of telecom service providers (TSPs) and infrastructure providers (IPs) to ensure the working of generators that power mobile phone towers.
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The state government also rubbished rumours of petrol or diesel shortage in the state. In the past three days, fuel outlets in the state have been seeing long queues of vehicles as people were on a panic buying spree.
Fuel shortage rumours spread on social media. The department acted after TSPs/IPs raised the issue of
reluctance of some fuel retailers to give them fuel.
“It is to be noted that there exists no fuel scarcity in the state and all supply points are working well except the ones inundated. Diesel supply should be ensured to ensure working of mobile phone tower, especially in highly affected areas. Hence, top priority shall be given to TSPs/IPs for collecting fuel for filling up generators to reinstate mobile connectivity. Urgent steps shall be taken to ensure adequate fuel supply to telecos and the free movement of their vehicles through the flood-affected areas for maintenance of mobile towers," a letter issued by department joint secretary Vinod G. said.