LPG Crisis in India Protest: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged urgent measures to stabilize the supply of cooking gas in the state as concerns grow over a potential LPG shortage. During a press briefing in Kolkata, she proposed creating a “green channel” for LPG cylinder supply to ensure households and essential services receive uninterrupted fuel.
Emergency meeting on energy crisis. Chief Minister in meeting with oil companies. Meeting with the heads of three oil companies. Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Food Department Secretary in the meeting.
The Chief Minister’s remarks came after a high-level meeting with gas companies, officials, and state administrators to review the situation and prevent disruptions in cooking gas availability.
Green Channel Proposal for LPG Supply (LPG Crisis in India)
To maintain regular supply, the state government is planning to introduce a special distribution system or “green channel” that will prioritize cooking gas delivery across West Bengal.
According to Mamata Banerjee, the aim is to ensure that cylinders reach:
- Households across the state
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Mid-day meal kitchens in schools
- ICDS centres and hostels
- Small restaurants and food stalls
She also said district-level officers will monitor supply and prevent hoarding or black marketing of LPG cylinders.
Energy Crisis Sparks Concern Across the Country
India is currently witnessing growing concern over cooking gas supply as prices rise and reports of shortages appear in several regions. Amid this situation, Mamata Banerjee strongly criticized the central government and called for urgent action to address the crisis.
Speaking during a press briefing after an emergency meeting with oil companies and government officials, the West Bengal Chief Minister said that people across the country are facing difficulties due to rising LPG prices and supply disruptions.
She questioned why authorities did not take preventive measures earlier to ensure sufficient reserves of cooking gas.
Emergency Meeting with Oil Companies (LPG Crisis in India)
To review the situation, the Chief Minister held a high-level meeting with representatives of major oil companies and senior state officials.
The meeting included:
- Heads of three oil companies
- State Chief Secretary
- Home Secretary
- Food and Supplies Department Secretary
- Senior administrative officers
During the meeting, the government discussed ways to stabilize LPG distribution and ensure households continue receiving cooking gas without interruption.
Officials also reviewed supply chain issues and the impact of global energy disruptions on domestic gas availability.
Mamata Banerjee Criticizes Centre Over LPG Supply
During the discussion, the Chief Minister alleged that the current crisis reflects poor planning at the national level.
According to her, the central government should have ensured sufficient reserves of LPG, oil, and gas before imposing new restrictions or policy changes.
She said that introducing measures without proper preparation has created panic among consumers and increased pressure on gas distribution networks.
Instruction to Prioritize Local LPG Supply
To avoid further shortages, the West Bengal government asked refineries and gas distributors to prioritize local demand.
The Chief Minister specifically requested that LPG produced within the state should not be sent outside until the situation stabilizes. Refineries in areas such as Haldia, Kolaghat, and Durgapur were asked to focus on supplying households and essential services first.
This step is intended to ensure that cooking gas remains available for families, hospitals, and welfare programs.
Panic Buying and Rising Demand
Officials observed that fear of a shortage has triggered panic booking of LPG cylinders. In some areas, daily booking numbers surged significantly, creating additional strain on supply systems.
The Chief Minister appealed to the public not to panic and assured that the government is monitoring the situation closely.
Impact on Businesses and Transport
The gas supply issue is not only affecting households but also businesses. Restaurants, catering services, and LPG-powered vehicles in cities like Kolkata have reported difficulties in obtaining cylinders.
Some eateries have temporarily stopped taking new orders because their LPG stocks are running low.
Demand for Additional Support for Poor Families (LPG Crisis in India)
Apart from LPG supply, the Chief Minister also urged the central government to increase the availability of subsidized kerosene so that low-income households have an alternative cooking fuel during the crisis.
She emphasized that poor families and small businesses should not suffer due to rising fuel prices.
Situation Still Under Close Monitoring
Authorities say the energy supply chain remains under watch as global tensions in West Asia continue to affect oil and gas markets.
The state government has assured residents that it will coordinate with oil companies and central agencies to maintain steady LPG distribution and prevent black marketing.
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