Mumbai, March 12 (NationPress) In light of the intensifying Iran-Israel conflict, the Maharashtra government has taken proactive steps to guarantee a steady supply of domestic and commercial gas cylinders.

To mitigate any potential disruptions and enhance coordination in the event of a shortage, the government has announced the formation of specialized committees at the district level.

Anil Diggikar, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection Department, has instructed all relevant agencies to implement measures to ensure smooth LPG supply and oversee distribution throughout the state.

The department reassured the public that the supply of domestic LPG will remain consistent, alleviating any concerns.

The average daily demand for LPG in Maharashtra is approximately 9,000 metric tonnes. To accommodate this demand, refinery production has been ramped up to around 11,000 metric tonnes daily over the past few days.

Officials confirmed that there is no shortage of domestic LPG, and ample stock is available. For commercial LPG, priority allocation is being implemented in accordance with Central Government policies.

Priority is also being given to essential services, including hospitals, mid-day meal programs, Ashram schools, community kitchens, and mess facilities within government institutions.

There is also a sufficient supply of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) for domestic use. The state has ample reserves of petrol and diesel, with refineries functioning at full capacity, producing approximately 15,000 kilolitres of petrol and 38,000 kilolitres of diesel each day.

The department urged citizens to remain calm, emphasizing that adequate arrangements have been established. The availability of domestic LPG cylinders in March exceeds the average supply recorded over the past six months.

The district-level committees will comprise the District Collector, Superintendent of Police, District Supply Officer, and representatives from government gas companies. Their responsibilities include monitoring the supply chain, maintaining order, and providing daily reports.

In the Mumbai–Thane rationing area, a committee will operate under the Controller of Rationing, assisted by the Deputy Commissioner of Police and Deputy Controller (Rationing), with coordination managed by the Joint Commissioner of Police (Administration).

Authorities have been directed to investigate the use of alternative fuels, such as coal or kerosene, while complying with Maharashtra Pollution Control Board regulations. Committees will also liaise with hotel and restaurant associations to promote the use of alternatives whenever possible.

Institutions providing essential services—such as hospitals, government hostels, and educational mess facilities—will receive priority in supply. A comprehensive list of these institutions will be released, along with a distinct priority order.

To counter misinformation, updates will be shared daily via radio, FM stations, television, and print media. Communication will be managed by the Directorate General of Information and Public Relations, alongside district committees.

Measures will be taken against false or misleading information circulating on social media. Oil companies have been instructed to promptly address any technical issues with gas booking applications and missed-call services.

Control rooms will be established at the state, divisional, district, and taluka levels, incorporating a WhatsApp feature for grievance resolution.

In anticipation of upcoming religious festivals, additional efforts will be made to ensure a consistent LPG supply to public institutions.