Odisha Government Clarifies 5kg LPG Cylinder Policy After Ban Announcement
In a significant clarification issued on Monday, the Odisha food supplies and consumer welfare department has specified that students and migrant workers remain eligible to procure 5kg LPG cylinders from authorized distributors, despite a recent announcement of restrictions on open market sales. This development comes just one day after Minister Krushna Chandra Patra declared an immediate ban on such sales.
Special Provisions for Vulnerable Groups
Principal Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh emphasized that 5kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders continue to be available through oil marketing companies across the state. "Students and migrant workers can obtain these cylinders from authorized distributors by presenting a valid identity proof. No address proof is required," Singh stated. He further revealed that oil companies are organizing special camps at various locations to facilitate on-the-spot connections for these groups.
Safety-Driven Restrictions on Illegal Sales
Clarifying the minister's initial statement, Singh explained that the ban specifically targets vendors who illegally procure cylinders from the open market, aiming to enhance public safety. The department is taking stringent action against unauthorized sellers to curb this practice. Nodal officer for oil companies, Kamalsheel, highlighted that while domestic cylinders are managed through e-KYC systems, both government and oil companies are working to ensure a seamless supply chain and protect consumers from exploitative illegal trade.
"The 5kg FTL cylinders are the most convenient option as they do not require a permanent address proof," Kamalsheel noted, underscoring their importance for transient populations.
Comprehensive Fuel Supply and Enforcement Measures
On the broader fuel situation, Singh assured that there is no shortage of LPG, petrol, or diesel in Odisha. Domestic LPG supply remains stable, and commercial gas availability is returning to normal, with 70% already achieved. Additionally, 20% of supply is being prioritized for critical institutions including hospitals, schools, hostels, and Aahaar Kendras.
District collectors are leading specialized committees to monitor local situations and resolve logistical hurdles promptly. The department has intensified enforcement efforts, conducting inspections at 1,633 locations, seizing 3,105 cylinders, and registering 288 cases to combat black marketing and illegal hoarding.
Singh urged citizens to utilize digital booking services for transparency, with oil marketing companies confirming sufficient stock at dealer and distributor levels to meet demand.
Availability and Pricing at Authorized Outlets
Meanwhile, LPG distributors in Bhubaneswar reported that both 2kg and 5kg cylinders are available at authorized outlets and through doorstep delivery services. A new 5kg cylinder costs approximately Rs 1,500, while a refill is priced around Rs 930.
Distributor Pratham Nayak explained, "If a consumer brings a 5kg cylinder for refill, it will be exchanged, as refilling is done only at plants and not at agencies." He warned that refilling at unauthorized retail outlets is unsafe and often results in underweight cylinders, reinforcing the importance of using authorized channels.
