Babu reviews LPG supply and stocks amid war concerns

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday conducted a high-level review of LPG availability, booking and supply mechanisms in the state in view of global uncertainties arising from ongoing geopolitical tensions. The review meeting was held through the Real Time Governance Society (RTGS) platform, with representatives of major gas supply companies and senior officials participating.

During the meeting, officials informed the Chief Minister that the state currently has 17,209 metric tonnes of LPG stock available. They also stated that gas cylinders are being supplied through 1,154 distribution agencies belonging to public sector companies including Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL).

Naidu sought detailed information about the measures being taken to prevent the diversion of LPG cylinders to the black market. He directed officials to ensure strict monitoring so that cylinders are not misused or illegally diverted during the delivery process.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the government must take steps to reassure the public and prevent unnecessary panic regarding LPG availability. He instructed authorities to closely monitor daily LPG stock levels, bookings and supply status to ensure uninterrupted distribution across the state.

Naidu also reviewed LPG supply arrangements for essential services such as Anna Canteens, hospitals, schools and temples, asking officials to ensure that their daily operations are not affected under any circumstances. Officials assured him that there were currently no disruptions in gas supply to the kitchens of Anna Canteens.

The Chief Minister directed authorities to take measures to restore normal delivery timelines for LPG cylinders and avoid delays that could inconvenience consumers. He also cautioned officials to prevent confusion among the public by ensuring clear communication regarding gas supply and distribution.

In addition, Naidu suggested initiating discussions with hotel and restaurant associations to explore ways to temporarily reduce LPG consumption wherever possible.

Officials further informed the Chief Minister that the Union government is likely to allocate additional LPG supplies to Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka in the coming days, which would further strengthen availability in the region.

The Chief Minister also asked officials to examine alternative cooking solutions such as piped gas systems and induction stoves to reduce dependency on LPG in the long term. He stressed that continuous monitoring and proactive measures would help ensure stable LPG supply across the state despite global uncertainties.