Kerosene Quota Declared for Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar After Prolonged Delay
In a long-awaited move, authorities have announced a kerosene quota of 1.4 lakh litres for Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. However, this supply is significantly inadequate compared to the district's 3.9 lakh target beneficiaries, raising fears of potential chaos at Public Distribution System (PDS) shops. The actual distribution timeline remains uncertain as officials are still finalizing retail suppliers and pricing details.
Priority Allocation and Supply Challenges
District Supply Officer Pravin Phulari stated that rural areas will be prioritized over urban zones for kerosene distribution. Priority Household (PHH) and Antyodaya Anna Yojana ration card holders will receive kerosene through PDS shops on a preferential basis, with a planned allocation of 3 litres per beneficiary. Phulari acknowledged the quota's insufficiency, noting that the district requires at least ten times more kerosene stock. He emphasized that the current district-wise quota was determined by the state government based on available statewide reserves, and a demand for increased allocation will be submitted to state-level authorities.
Government Policy and Distribution Revival
Officials revealed that the government has doubled the commission for kerosene suppliers as part of a renewed distribution effort. Previously, kerosene supply was phased out in the state under policy directives, but it has been reinstated due to the ongoing LPG crisis. Suppliers are being appointed through the PDS network, and once the distribution chain is established and prices are finalized, kerosene supply is expected to commence shortly. This revival aims to address fuel shortages impacting local businesses and households.
Impact on Local Communities
The kerosene quota announcement has sparked mixed reactions among residents. Bharat Kale, a tea-seller, expressed hope that the supply could help him resume his business, which he closed amid a commercial LPG shortage. He urged authorities to ensure timely implementation, warning that delays could exacerbate struggles for economically disadvantaged individuals. The broader community awaits concrete actions to mitigate the fuel crisis and support livelihoods in the district.
