Mumbai, April 2 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Protocol and Marketing Minister, Jaikumar Rawal, stated on Thursday that in light of the global LPG shortage caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, the state administration is implementing all necessary actions to guarantee an uninterrupted gas supply for local industries, foreign investment enterprises, and the general populace.

He underscored that the government is committed to ensuring that no industry encounters difficulties during this challenging time.

In response to requests from the Consuls General of Sweden, Japan, and South Korea regarding LPG supply to foreign-invested industries in Pune, the minister led a high-level meeting.

Minister Rawal remarked that while worldwide supply chains are facing disruptions and shipping costs have escalated, Prime Minister Modi is closely overseeing the situation.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the state is taking action based on central government directives to distribute LPG in a structured manner, providing immediate relief to essential sectors.

To combat black marketing and prevent artificial scarcity, the minister revealed that dedicated control rooms and helplines have been established in each district.

Officials have been instructed to promptly address complaints and enforce strict legal actions against individuals responsible for price increases or creating artificial shortages.

An officer from the Food and Civil Supply Department elaborated on the phased supply strategy outlined by the central government, prioritizing hospitals, educational institutions, and social organizations for LPG supply, followed by restaurants, the food sector, and labor-intensive industries.

The list for other industries is currently being finalized, with supply expected to stabilize within the next 48 hours.

The meeting also emphasized the government's initiative for PNG (Piped Natural Gas). To expedite City Gas Distribution (CGD) projects, all necessary approvals are being prioritized.

Permissions for road excavation and pipeline installation are being granted within a 24-hour timeframe. Most infrastructure work is projected to be completed within this month.

The foreign diplomats present expressed their contentment and commended the state government's transparent and proactive approach.

They acknowledged the collaborative efforts between the central and state governments to sustain the supply chain during this period, as mentioned by the minister.

“This crisis is temporary, and we anticipate a return to normalcy soon. We urge all industries and citizens of the state to collaborate with the administration during this time,” remarked Minister Rawal.