The North News
Chandigarh, March 13
Haryana Minister of State for Food and Civil Supplies Rajesh Nagar on Thursday said the supply of petroleum products, including domestic LPG, in the state is completely normal. He warned that strict action will be taken against those spreading rumours, and indulging in black marketing.
The minister cautioned the public against rumours saying the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued necessary guidelines regarding ensuring adequate supply, proper and equitable distribution and availability of domestic LPG for priority sectors. In compliance with these directions, the Haryana government has taken all necessary steps with immediate effect, he said in an official statement.
At present, the supply of petrol, diesel and domestic LPG across Haryana is running smoothly. Major oil companies — Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) — have adequate stock available, he said.
In addition, LPG supply is being received continuously, ensuring that consumers do not face any shortage, Nagar said.
The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department is working on war-footing to strengthen the supply chain and meet consumers’ needs, he said, adding that officials are monitoring the situation round the clock to maintain complete coordination between demand and supply. The minister said there is temporary disruption in supply of commercial cylinders owing to “global conditions” and the situation will be resolved soon.
On priority basis, supply of commercial cylinders is being ensured to educational institutions, hospitals and establishments associated with essential services. Special teams have been formed to normalise the remaining distribution, and the situation is expected to be under control soon, he said.
The minister further said the Haryana government’s primary objective is to ensure that every household has adequate access to cooking gas, and vehicles continue to run smoothly.
With the cooperation of the Centre, a strong distribution network has been developed at the state level, which includes more than 5,000 distributors. Through them, lakhs of cylinders are being distributed daily, he said.
Nagar said to effectively curb theft, black marketing or unauthorised distribution, strict instructions have been issued to all deputy commissioners, superintendents of police, and district food and supply controllers across the state.
These instructions include launching special drives, daily reporting of stock and prompt redressal of consumer complaints. The department has also activated a helpline where consumers can register grievances.
The minister appealed to the public not to pay heed to rumours regarding the supply of LPG or petroleum products, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary panic and hoarding, as it may create an artificial shortage in the market.
