Andhra Pradesh Government Takes Proactive Steps to Secure LPG Supply Chain
In a high-level review meeting held in Vijayawada on Friday, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu issued clear directives to state officials to guarantee uninterrupted LPG cylinder distribution across Andhra Pradesh. This move comes amid growing concerns about potential disruptions due to escalating tensions in the Middle East region.
Priority Allocation and Alternative Energy Solutions
The Chief Minister emphasized that special attention must be given to rural and tribal regions, educational institutions, temples, Anna canteens, and Anganwadi centres. He further instructed officials to actively explore alternative cooking energy options, including induction stoves and piped natural gas (PNG) systems, to reduce dependency on traditional LPG cylinders.
Recognizing the broader energy security landscape, Naidu also directed coordination with the Central government to prevent any potential shortages of critical agricultural and transportation fuels, specifically fertilizers, petrol, and diesel.
Addressing Panic and Misinformation
Meanwhile, Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar addressed the public regarding a recent surge in LPG bookings, attributing it to misleading information circulating online. He revealed that bookings had peaked at 5.04 lakh on March 14 but have since normalized to approximately 2.96 lakh.
"There is no need for fear. We are ensuring uninterrupted supply to all sectors," Manohar stated firmly, appealing to consumers to avoid unnecessary bookings that could create artificial scarcity and inconvenience others.
Supply Status and Policy Initiatives
The minister clarified that both domestic and commercial LPG supplies are currently flowing smoothly. Essential services such as hospitals, schools, and hostels are receiving priority allocation. He announced that the state government is developing a comprehensive policy to promote piped natural gas infrastructure in urban areas.
In a significant development, Manohar confirmed that the Centre has agreed to temporarily resume kerosene supply for rural and agency areas, despite Andhra Pradesh previously being declared kerosene-free.
Crackdown on Black Marketing and Support for Hospitality Sector
Highlighting enforcement measures, the minister warned of strict action against black marketing and irregularities in the LPG distribution system. Surveillance has been intensified on LPG agencies, with preliminary action already taken against a few agencies suspected of malpractice.
Addressing concerns from the hospitality industry, Manohar acknowledged the severe shortage of commercial gas cylinders affecting hotels and restaurants. He assured that the government would redirect the gas quota allocated to government schools and colleges once their academic year concludes and summer vacations begin, providing relief to the struggling sector.
During a meeting with Hotel Association Joint Action Committee representatives, including leaders RV Swamy and Ramana, officials learned that cylinders are being sold in the black market for exorbitant prices ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,000. The association urgently requested government intervention to regulate cylinders and prevent diversion to illegal markets.
In response, Manohar informed them that the state's commercial gas quota has been increased from 4,500 metric tonnes to 5,200 metric tonnes. Civil Supplies Department Secretary Saurabh Gaur is currently in Delhi overseeing this enhancement process to ensure adequate supply reaches legitimate commercial consumers.
