Bhubaneswar, March 10 (NationPress) In light of the intensifying conflict in the Middle East, which has raised concerns about potential fuel shortages, Odisha's Chief Secretary, Anu Garg, urged state residents on Tuesday to remain calm, affirming that there is sufficient stock of cooking gas (LPG), petrol, and diesel in the region.

An official statement revealed that the Chief Secretary conducted a review of the availability of LPG, petrol, and diesel during a meeting held at the Lokseva Bhawan conference hall on Tuesday.

This significant meeting included the participation of the Principal Secretary for the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department, Sanjay Kumar Singh, along with representatives from Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) involved in petroleum product supply, such as IOCL, HPCL, and BPCL.

During the discussions, the distribution mechanism and supply chain management of LPG from oil refineries and depots to distributors and retail outlets were thoroughly examined.

The state government was informed by oil company officials that there are no issues concerning the supply of LPG to homes.

Additionally, the OMC representatives assured that the supply of cooking gas to educational institutions and hospitals remains unaffected.

The Chief Secretary directed the oil companies to ensure a well-maintained supply chain to facilitate the seamless availability of cooking gas, petrol, and diesel.

The FS&CW Department, along with the oil marketing executives, was tasked with the responsibility to consistently share vital information and to enhance public awareness regarding the availability of LPG, petrol, and diesel via various media channels, including banners, posters, and text messages to consumers’ mobile devices.

Moreover, oil companies have been instructed to provide daily reports to the FS&CW Department regarding the status of cooking gas and fuel availability in the state, similar to the reports they submit to the Government of India, to ensure effective supply chain oversight.

Upon reviewing the current situation, the Chief Secretary emphasized that there is an ample supply of cooking gas (LPG) in the state and urged the public to stay calm.

On the same day, the Hotel & Restaurant Association of Odisha (HRAO) addressed a letter to Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, highlighting recent restrictions on the supply of commercial LPG cylinders to hotels and restaurants in various metropolitan areas.

The organization requested the union minister's intervention to take immediate measures to restore and guarantee a steady supply of commercial LPG cylinders to hotels and restaurants nationwide.

“A timely intervention from the Ministry will assist in averting operational disruptions and ensure that the tourism and hospitality sector can continue to serve visitors without interruption. We would greatly appreciate your prompt attention and action regarding this matter,” stated Dr. J K Mohanty, Chairman of HRAO.