Odisha Minister Guarantees Sufficient LPG and Fuel Supplies Amid Public Concerns
Synopsis
In a bid to alleviate public anxiety, Odisha's Minister of Food Supplies, Krushna Chandra Patra, confirmed an adequate supply of LPG, petrol, and diesel. He urged citizens to remain calm and avoid panic, while also addressing concerns over black marketing and illegal activities.
Key Takeaways
Odisha Minister Krushna Chandra Patra assures residents of sufficient LPG, petrol, and diesel supplies.
A high-level meeting was convened to review fuel distribution.
District collectors will provide daily reports on supply levels.
The government is combating black marketing and hoarding.
Residents are urged to remain calm and report shortages promptly.
Bhubaneswar, March 12 (NationPress) Odisha's Minister of Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare, Krushna Chandra Patra, reassured citizens on Thursday that there is no need for alarm regarding the supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), petrol, and diesel in the state, affirming that there is an ample stock of these essential fuels.
The minister presided over a crucial meeting at Lokseva Bhavan to assess the availability and distribution channels of LPG, petrol, and diesel throughout Odisha.
“A comprehensive review of the delivery process to LPG distributors and retail points was conducted by the minister, who urged officials to stay alert to prevent any consumer difficulties. To facilitate continuous monitoring, district collectors have been tasked with providing daily updates on the supply status in their areas,” the official statement released on Thursday noted.
During the meeting, Patra reassured the public of the adequate supply of cooking gas and fuel in the state. He encouraged the people of Odisha to avoid panic or distress regarding the supply situation.
In light of international developments, the minister urged the public to stay vigilant yet composed, despite the current events unfolding in West Asia.
Patra also issued a firm warning against black market operations and hoarding, stating that departmental personnel have been assigned to conduct inspections. He further mandated immediate legal action upon receiving reports of such illicit activities.
The meeting included the participation of Sanjay Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary of the Supplies Department; K. Sudarshan Chakraborty, Managing Director of the Odisha State Civil Supplies Corporation; and senior department officials, along with representatives from major oil companies such as IOCL, BPCL, HPCL, Reliance, and GAIL.
During the session, Singh highlighted that district collectors have been instructed to submit daily reports on the demand and availability of LPG, petrol, and diesel.
Marketing officers have also been assigned the responsibility to oversee sensitive government entities, including SCB Medical College in Cuttack and several educational institutions.
Singh reiterated that the state government is committed to ensuring that domestic consumers experience no interruptions in their daily routines.
It is worth noting that a disruption occurred in the Odisha Assembly on Thursday, with opposition BJD and Congress MLAs voicing concerns over the recent increase in LPG cylinder prices and reports of cooking gas shortages, leading to multiple adjournments.
Despite the state's repeated assurances of sufficient stock, several residents and hotel proprietors have reported difficulties in obtaining LPG.
Point of View
It's essential to highlight the state government's proactive measures in addressing public concerns over fuel supplies. The assurance given by Minister Krushna Chandra Patra indicates a commitment to maintaining stability and preventing panic among residents. While challenges persist, the government's vigilance and response to illegal activities are crucial in ensuring consumer confidence.
NationPress
1 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an actual shortage of LPG in Odisha?
Despite some complaints from residents, the Odisha government has assured that there is sufficient stock of LPG available.
What measures are being taken against black marketing?
The state has deployed departmental officers to conduct raids and is prepared to take legal action against any reports of illegal activities.
How often will district collectors report on fuel supply?
District collectors have been instructed to provide daily updates on the supply situation for LPG, petrol, and diesel.
What should residents do if they face fuel shortages?
Residents are encouraged to report any shortages to the authorities to ensure timely intervention.
How is the government ensuring a smooth supply chain?
The government is closely monitoring the supply chain and has directed officials to remain vigilant to prevent consumer hardship.
