Dehradun, April 7: Amid rising concerns regarding the supply of petrol, diesel, and LPG in Uttarakhand, P.S. Pangti, the Additional Commissioner of the Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Department, held a press conference to clarify the situation. He assured that there is no shortage of domestic gas, petrol, or diesel in the state, and the supply remains fully normal. He urged the public to remain calm and avoid falling for rumors.
Pangti addressed recent reports suggesting a need for 2 million gas cylinders, stating that such figures have unnecessarily caused panic. He explained that viewing statistics out of context can lead to confusion. The state government has sent a proposal to the central government to maintain the LPG allocation received in 2025, with an increase of approximately 5 percent.
He emphasized that this is not just a challenge for the state or the country, but a global issue, and cooperation from everyone is essential to address it. He appealed to the media and the public for positive collaboration to manage the situation effectively.
During an interview with a news agency, Pangti mentioned that there is currently a temporary halt on new domestic gas connections. This decision is only for a short period to prevent chaos or misuse. He noted that some individuals unnecessarily acquire connections for improper use, hence the hold until normalcy is restored.
Pangti clarified that the supply of domestic gas is fully operational, with priority given to hospitals and educational institutions. He also mentioned that under the Prime Minister’s Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, 1.4 million ration cardholders will receive three months’ worth of rations in April through biometric distribution.
Regarding commercial cylinders, he stated that the government has issued an SOP for 66 percent allocation, and oil marketing companies are continuously increasing supply. Efforts are underway to ensure that the supply of commercial gas becomes regular.
In anticipation of the upcoming wedding season, the government has made special arrangements, issuing 660 commercial cylinders daily. District magistrates and supply officials have been tasked with managing this, and individuals will need to apply for cylinders by presenting their wedding cards.
Preparations are also underway for the Char Dham Yatra. Pangti revealed that a demand letter has been sent to the central government at the chief secretary level, requesting to maintain last year’s supply levels with a 5 percent increase. He reassured that there is no need for panic regarding large figures, as arrangements are already in place.
He addressed reports of long queues in some areas, stating that they are not entirely accurate. For instance, Dehradun alone receives about 15,500 to 16,000 cylinder deliveries daily. Home deliveries are ongoing, and gas is reaching consumers. While there were initial difficulties, the situation is improving.
In case of any disruptions in gas supply, alternative arrangements have been made. The Forest Department and Forest Corporation have stockpiled sufficient wood at around 65 depots across the state for emergency use.
The government has initiated strict action against black marketing and hoarding. Pangti reported that from April 5-6, 17 FIRs have been filed in the state, with 7 arrests made and approximately 1,037 cylinders seized. Additionally, fines exceeding 100,000 rupees have been imposed. Quick response teams have been established in every district to monitor the situation continuously.
–
Leave a Comment