Maharashtra Government Ensures Steady Fuel Supply Amid Regional Tensions
Government's Assurance on Fuel Supply
In light of ongoing tensions in West Asia, the Maharashtra government is taking proactive measures to guarantee the uninterrupted supply of domestic LPG, petrol, and diesel within the state. Dismissing rumors of a fuel shortage as mere "baseless speculation," officials have reassured citizens that there is no cause for alarm.
Formation of District Committees for Supply Monitoring
To prevent any disruptions, the government has announced the establishment of district-level committees under the supervision of district collectors. These committees will include the Superintendent of Police, district supply officers, and representatives from state oil companies. Their responsibilities will encompass monitoring the LPG supply chain, maintaining law and order, and providing daily updates on the situation. In the Mumbai-Thane rationing area, a separate committee will operate under the rationing controller, comprising members such as the Deputy Commissioner of Police and the rationing sub-controller.
Priority LPG Supply for Essential Services
Officials have indicated that hospitals, government hostels, school and college messes, mid-day meal kitchens, and ashram schools will receive priority in LPG allocations. They have also been advised to consider alternative fuels like kerosene or coal wherever feasible, while ensuring compliance with regulations set by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board.
Combating Misinformation and Enhancing Communication
In an effort to curb misinformation, the state government has instructed officials to disseminate verified information daily through radio, FM channels, television, and newspapers. Authorities have stated that action will be taken against those spreading false or misleading messages on social media. Additionally, oil companies have been urged to resolve technical issues related to gas booking apps and missed call services. A WhatsApp-based grievance redressal system is also set to be launched.
Increased Production to Meet Demand
Officials reported that the average daily demand for LPG in Maharashtra is approximately 9,000 metric tons. To meet the rising needs, refinery production has been ramped up to about 11,000 metric tons per day. They also confirmed that there is a sufficient stock of piped natural gas (PNG) available for households.
Sufficient Stocks of Petrol and Diesel
The state government has confirmed that there are adequate reserves of petrol and diesel, with refineries currently producing around 15,000 kiloliters of petrol and 38,000 kiloliters of diesel daily. Officials reiterated that there is no need for citizens to panic, as all necessary arrangements have been made to manage fuel supply efficiently.