BHOPAL — Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has reassured citizens that there is absolutely no shortage of domestic LPG, PNG, or CNG in the state despite the ongoing geopolitical conflict and war in the Middle East.
Addressing the public on Thursday, Dr. Yadav emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Cabinet are fully alert to the situation. Both the Central and State governments have implemented robust management strategies to ensure seamless fuel delivery and have zero tolerance for black marketing.
Strategic Management and Diplomatic Wins With global oil supplies traditionally flowing through the Strait of Hormuz now under threat, the government has swiftly pivoted its strategy. According to the Chief Minister, alternate supply routes have been secured, and Indian refineries are operating at maximum capacity.
Key developments ensuring energy security include:
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Production Boost: Refineries have been directed to maximize LPG output, successfully increasing domestic LPG production by approximately 25 per cent.
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Diplomatic Exemption: In a significant diplomatic victory, Indian-flagged ships and tankers passing through the highly volatile Strait of Hormuz will not be targeted or stopped, effectively eliminating a major bottleneck in petroleum supply.
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Alternative Sourcing: The procurement of natural gas through alternative global suppliers is actively underway.
“Citizens do not need to worry. Complete management is in place at both the Center and State levels to prevent any black marketing. There is no shortage of petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, crude oil, or domestic gas in the state,” Dr. Yadav stated. A special committee of senior ministers has also been formed to monitor the situation.
Administrative Crackdown on Hoarding and Rumors Following the Chief Minister’s directives, Chief Secretary Anurag Jain held a high-level video conference with all Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, and Superintendents of Police (SPs) to review fuel availability.
To maintain order and ensure supply, the administration has rolled out strict directives across all districts:
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Zero Tolerance for Hoarding: Intelligence networks are to be strengthened to prevent any illegal hoarding or black marketing of gas cylinders.
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Action Against Rumors: Director General of Police (DGP) Kailash Makwana instructed police officers to take immediate action against individuals spreading false information and rumors regarding fuel shortages on social media.
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Promoting Alternative Energy: Collectors have been praised for, and instructed to continue, encouraging commercial establishments like hotels and marriage gardens to switch from commercial gas to electric and induction stoves to preserve gas reserves.
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Push for PNG: Authorities are actively driving efforts to connect more households and businesses to the Piped Natural Gas (PNG) network.
24/7 Monitoring and Control Rooms Additional Chief Secretary (Food and Civil Supplies) Rashmi Arun Shami has been appointed as the state-level coordination officer to oversee daily fuel distribution.
To keep the public informed and address grievances, dedicated control rooms equipped with multiple phone lines and trained staff are being established at both the state and district levels. Authorities have reiterated that the supply chain is completely transparent and urged citizens not to fall prey to panic buying.
