Andhra Pradesh Minister Dismisses Fuel Shortage Rumors, Unveils Major PNG Expansion
Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar has categorically stated that there is no shortage of cooking gas, petrol, or diesel in Andhra Pradesh. He urged the public to disregard unverified rumors circulating on social media platforms that have caused unnecessary panic among residents.
Ambitious Target for Piped Natural Gas Connections
In a significant announcement, Minister Manohar revealed that the state government has set an ambitious target of providing over one lakh Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections within the next month. This initiative aims to promote cleaner and more efficient fuel usage across urban and industrial centers.
"We are committed to accelerating the transition to cleaner energy sources," Manohar declared during a press conference at the secretariat on Thursday. "PNG offers numerous advantages over traditional LPG cylinders, including uninterrupted supply, environmental benefits, and cost-effectiveness."
Enhanced Subsidies and Faster Approvals
To encourage widespread adoption of PNG, the minister announced that subsidies under the Deepam scheme will be extended to PNG users. Currently, beneficiaries receive one free LPG cylinder every four months. Under the new proposal:
- PNG users will receive subsidies once every two months
- A direct benefit transfer of ₹2,400 will be provided to eligible households
- Permissions for PNG connections will be granted within 24 hours
- Automatic approvals will be introduced where necessary to streamline the process
Strategic Focus Areas for PNG Implementation
Minister Manohar specifically called upon various establishments in key cities to transition from LPG to PNG systems:
- Apartment complexes
- Commercial establishments
- Industrial units
The initiative will initially focus on major urban centers including Vijayawada, Guntur, Visakhapatnam, Tirupati, Nellore, and Kakinada. Additionally, PNG connectivity is being extended to prominent temples such as Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, Kanaka Durga temple, Srikalahasti temple, Annavaram Satyanarayana temple, Simhachalam temple, and Anna Canteens.
Addressing Supply Concerns and Misinformation
Dismissing reports of fuel shortages, Manohar provided detailed supply figures:
- Approximately 2.7 lakh LPG cylinders are being supplied daily across the state
- Supply has reached up to 3.3 lakh cylinders on certain days
- Temporary disruptions were caused by panic booking triggered by misinformation
- All supply issues have now been resolved
"We have adequate stocks of all fuels, and there is absolutely no reason for concern," the minister emphasized. "The temporary disruptions were purely a result of panic buying based on false information circulating on social media."
Strict Measures Against Malpractices
Minister Manohar issued a stern warning against any malpractices in the fuel distribution system:
- Strict action will be taken against black marketing of cooking gas, petrol, or diesel
- Overpricing of fuels will not be tolerated
- Monitoring mechanisms have been strengthened to ensure fair distribution
Comprehensive Clean Energy Initiative
As part of the broader clean energy push, the government is also providing induction stoves to all Anganwadi centers across the state. This complements the PNG expansion by promoting electric cooking alternatives in community institutions.
The minister highlighted that central government incentives are available for PNG adoption, making the transition more financially viable for both residential and commercial users. The comprehensive approach addresses immediate supply concerns while laying the groundwork for sustainable energy infrastructure development in Andhra Pradesh.
