Uttar Pradesh Government Intensifies Efforts to Combat Fuel Black Marketing
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Lucknow, March 30 (NationPress) The government of Uttar Pradesh has taken decisive measures to ensure a steady supply and combat black marketing of petrol, diesel, and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) across the state.
Since the onset of operations on March 12, a total of 17,581 inspections and raids have been conducted to address illegal practices and hoarding. Authorities have registered 33 First Information Reports against LPG distributors, along with 189 complaints in other related cases, resulting in the apprehension of 17 suspects.
Moreover, legal proceedings have commenced against 224 individuals implicated in these irregularities.
The government reassures the public that the supply remains stable, with current stocks of approximately 91,000 kilolitres of petrol and 115,000 kilolitres of diesel.
Uttar Pradesh boasts 12,888 functioning petrol pumps, with fuel transactions recorded in thousands of kilolitres from March 27 to March 29.
Officials have urged residents not to succumb to panic or fuel hoarding, emphasizing that ample supplies are available. The LPG supply situation is also reported to be satisfactory.
Cylinders are being distributed based on consumer bookings through a network of 4,107 gas distributors, maintaining adequate stock levels.
The government is also moving swiftly to enhance the City Gas Distribution network. In a recent high-level meeting led by the Chief Secretary, directives were issued to expedite pending approvals and to provide as many piped natural gas connections as feasible.
Additionally, the Central Government has greenlit a 20 percent increase in the allocation of commercial LPG cylinders starting March 23, which will alleviate pressure on domestic supplies.
To guarantee rigorous monitoring, a 24-hour control room has been established at the Commissioner of Food and Civil Supplies' office, with similar control rooms functioning in each district for constant oversight.
District Supply Officers and local authorities have been tasked with conducting regular inspections to ensure that consumers receive their fuel and gas cylinders promptly, without any inconvenience.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to taking stringent actions against black marketing, hoarding, or any disruptions to the supply chain, maintaining a policy of zero tolerance towards such activities.
Through these proactive initiatives, sufficient stock, and vigilant oversight, the Uttar Pradesh government assures its citizens that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG, and that normal supply will be upheld at all costs.