HP has 15,000 commercial LPG cylinders, no need to worry: Chief secretary

Shimla: Amid concerns over the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on fuel supplies, Himachal Pradesh chief secretary Sanjay Gupta on Wednesday offered relief, saying Himachal Pradesh currently has nearly 15,000 commercial liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders available for supply to hotels, restaurants and other institutions.The chief secretary presided over a review meeting to assess the availability of petrol, diesel, and domestic as well as commercial LPG in the state. During the meeting, officials informed that the supply of commercial LPG cylinders was "slightly affected" due to the prevailing international situation. However, essential institutions such as govt and private hospitals, as well as educational institutions, are being accorded priority in the supply of commercial LPG to ensure that critical services continue without disruption. Gupta said the hill state, at present, has sufficient stock of petrol, diesel, and LPG for domestic cooking, and there is no need for the public to worry. He directed officials to ensure uninterrupted availability for the public. Gupta also urged the general public, particularly domestic LPG consumers, not to panic or make unnecessary bookings based on misleading information circulating on social media. He said there is adequate stock of domestic LPG in the state, and consumers should remain patient.The chief secretary directed all deputy commissioners to closely monitor the situation and conduct daily reviews to ensure smooth supply and distribution of petroleum products and LPG across their respective districts. Additional chief secretary R D Nazim and director of the food and civil supplies department Ram Kumar Gautam were present at the meeting.Hospitality Sector Feels HeatThe hospitality sector across the hill state, including hotels, restaurants, and dhabas, is grappling with difficulties due to a halt in the supply of commercial LPG cylinders.On Tuesday, association members met the tourism director, requesting temporary authorisation to use domestic LPG cylinders exclusively for preparing staff meals in hotels. They also urged the director to coordinate with gas companies to ensure a limited supply of either domestic or commercial cylinders to hotels and restaurants, allowing them to maintain essential food services for guests by reducing their menu. The association emphasised that such steps are crucial to protecting the tourism sector, a key economic pillar of the state. MSID:: 129464080 413 |