Shillong: Meghalaya Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Methodius Dkhar on Thursday assured residents that there is no need to panic over the supply of LPG in the state, stating that adequate stock is available and the government is closely monitoring distribution.
Speaking to mediapersons after a review meeting, Dkhar said the state government held an intensive discussion with district officials and representatives of oil marketing companies to assess the current situation. “We had an intensive review meeting with the Deputy Commissioners, SDOs, the commissioner and secretary from the Food and Civil Supplies department and the team from IOCL to take stock of the situation,” he said.
The minister said the state is coordinating with oil marketing companies including Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited to ensure uninterrupted LPG supply across Meghalaya. Domestic LPG supply for households remains the top priority, he added.
Dkhar also informed that the government has activated a state-level monitoring mechanism under the chief secretary, along with district committees led by deputy commissioners, to track LPG stock and distribution on a daily basis.
He said priority is being given to essential institutions such as hospitals, hostels, anganwadis and welfare kitchens. The government will also take strict action against diversion, hoarding or black marketing of LPG cylinders under the provisions of the Essential Commodities Act.
The department is also coordinating with transport authorities and oil companies to ensure the smooth movement of LPG tankers and cylinders. The minister urged citizens not to indulge in panic booking or hoarding and to report any irregularities to district authorities.
“As of now the situation is under control and the government is confident that regular supply will be maintained across the state,” he said.
Meanwhile, president of the Khasi-Pnar Gas Agency R. L. Blah said the current price of a 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder in Meghalaya is around Rs 1,005. He added that oil companies are currently prioritising the supply of domestic cylinders to ensure that households do not face disruptions.
Blah said there should be no disruption in LPG supply across Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills and Ri-Bhoi districts. However, he noted that supply to Garo Hills may require logistical support due to the prevailing situation there.
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He said an appeal has been made to district authorities in Garo Hills to provide escort for LPG consignments so that cylinders can be transported safely to the region.
Blah also noted that the supply situation is linked to broader global developments, as a large portion of LPG used in India is imported. He referred to disruptions in global supply routes, including the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which had affected shipments.
Despite this, he said Meghalaya currently has sufficient domestic LPG stock to meet demand until March 31, 2026.
He added that efforts are also being made to ensure adequate supply of 19 kg commercial cylinders, particularly for hotels, hostels and eateries, given the state’s growing tourism sector, including areas such as Sohra.
According to Blah, additional consignments of commercial LPG cylinders have already been dispatched to the state, with more expected to arrive soon.
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