Gas shortage across the country has not only affecting business but also the household. On Thursday, signs of this energy crunch began to be felt across the state in major cities such as Mumbai, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Nashik, Kolhapur, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, and Pune. As this apprehension spreads to rural areas, an atmosphere of anxiety has begun to prevail among numerous small eateries, hotels, and roadside restaurants (dhabas). Amidst this situation, the Central Government has released key information regarding the status of gas cylinder supplies across the country.
The conflict in the Middle East has raised the specter of an energy crisis globally, including in India. Within India, various states have already begun to feel the pinch of this gas cylinder shortage. Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum, held a press conference to provide an update on the current situation. The Central Government has appealed to the public not to fall prey to rumors or panic.
Booking numbers surge to approximately 75–76 lakhs
Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma appealed to all citizens, urging them not to believe in rumors or give in to panic. She also advised against rushing to purchase gas cylinders out of undue pressure or anxiety. "Our average daily booking volume typically ranges between 50 to 55 lakhs. However, a close look at the data from the past few days reveals that this booking volume has surged to approximately 75–76 lakhs." The capacity of call centers operated by public sector oil marketing companies has been expanded to accommodate up to 400 agents, and the number of telephone lines has been increased to 50. It was clarified that citizens can utilize these channels to register their complaints.
Assurance of Continuous Coordination and Cooperation with States
The states have been given an assurance of continuous coordination and cooperation regarding the supply of fuel. States have been advised to take strict action against black marketing and hoarding, and to ensure that such incidents do not occur. The District Administration, District Magistrates, and Superintendents of Police (SPs) play a crucial role in curbing black marketing and hoarding. They possess adequate resources to prevent such activities, should they arise anywhere. (With ANI Inputs)
Meanwhile, action is also being taken against black marketing and hoarding. The Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Secretary of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, held a meeting with all Secretaries of the Food and Civil Supplies Departments of the States and Union Territories, and apprised them of the current situation.