Salt shortage rumour triggers panic buying

NEW DELHI: Salt shortage rumours in several parts of Uttar Pradesh have led to a panic buying spree, with people thronging to shops amid fear that the shortage could span for several days.

There have also been reports of panic buying in several parts of the National Capital Region (NCR).

According to reports, salt is being sold in several parts of the state at exhorbitant prices, going as high as Rs 250/kg.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav has directed all districts magistrates in the state to take strict measures to check panic buying of salt and act against rumour mongers. He also refuted the ongoing rumors saying that there is no shortage of salt and has directed all district supply officers to ensure that there is no hoarding of salt.

The Lucknow district magistrate Satyendra Singh has also discarded these rumors, assuring netizens that there is no shortage. "We will arrest the rumour mongers," the DM said.

"Kindly do not pay any attention to the rumors and help us maintain law and order," the Inspector General of Lucknow Zone appealed to people.

The UP Police has arrested one person for spreading the rumours as of now.

Meanwhile, the shortage rumours have also spread to Kolkata and panic-stricken people in the city are queueing to buy the essential commodity.