Bhubaneswar: In a bid to ensure uninterrupted and timely supply of LPG to households across Odisha, the state government on Friday directed public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs) to strengthen their delivery mechanisms and maintain adequate cylinder stocks.
At a review meeting held with senior officials of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), Principal Secretary of Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare (FS&CW), Sanjay Kumar Singh, said that delays in LPG delivery would not be tolerated and instructed companies to prioritise consumer convenience at all levels.
Singh stressed that OMCs must ensure sufficient buffer stock of cylinders in the state and keep supply chains stable, especially in regions where consumers have reported delays. He also asked the department to issue instructions to the companies for multiple sourcing points for LPG cylinders to avoid bottlenecks.
Expressing concern over the availability of 5-kg cylinders being sold without proper safety protocols, the Principal Secretary ordered officials to take swift action on such complaints. He further directed field teams to conduct regular inspections to curb black marketing and unauthorised refilling units, ensuring consumer safety and preventing malpractice.
The meeting also discussed challenges faced by consumers, dealers and OMCs, with Singh underscoring the need for coordinated efforts to maintain an uninterrupted LPG supply chain across Odisha.
Senior officials present at the meeting included Indian Oil Chief General Manager Naro Tundup, HPCL Deputy General Manager M.N. Srinivas, BPCL State Head Raj Kumar Singh, Chief Manager Pranali Meshram, IOCL Chief Manager K.C. Seth, and Additional Director Salauddin Khan.
