Odisha government assures adequate LPG supply as Chief Secretary Anu Garg reviews fuel availability with oil companies amid panic buying across the state
OdishaPlus Bureau
Amid concerns regarding a potential LPG shortage that has caused panic among consumers, resulting in long queues at cooking gas distribution centers in various regions of the state, the government sought to reassure the public on Tuesday, confirming that authorities are actively working to ensure sufficient supplies.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg convened a high-level meeting with oil marketing companies (OMCs) at Lok Seva Bhawan to evaluate the availability of LPG, petrol, and diesel within the state. The discussions indicated that there is a sufficient stock of LPG available and that supply chains are operating normally.
Following the review, the Chief Secretary stated, “Officials from the oil companies reported that there are no issues with the supply of LPG to households, educational institutions, and hospitals.”
Representatives from the oil companies clarified that the supply of LPG from refineries and depots to distributors is proceeding without any interruptions in the system.
The Chief Secretary instructed the OMCs to provide a daily report on the availability of cooking gas and fuel (petrol and diesel) to the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department starting Wednesday.
She also directed the department to enhance enforcement measures throughout the state to prevent the diversion and black marketing of LPG cylinders.
The department and oil companies were urged to actively share information regarding fuel availability to mitigate unnecessary panic among the public.
Officials explained that the surge in activity at distribution points was primarily caused by consumer panic following rumors of a shortage. A significant number of individuals were observed congregating outside LPG distribution centers with empty cylinders, seeking immediate refills. Officials emphasized that such walk-in refilling practices have been discontinued for some time, and consumers are required to book refills through the online booking system, which may take some time for delivery.
A representative of the Odisha LPG Distributors Association, however, pointed out that the central government has placed limitations on the supply of LPG to specific industrial and commercial consumers, which will affect certain sectors.
The meeting was attended by Sanjay Kumar Singh, the principal secretary of the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare department, along with officials from the major oil marketing companies.
