Shillong, March 26: Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Minister Methodius Dkhar has written to the Centre seeking a 50-60 percent increase in the supply of LPG for commercial purpose as it will affect state’s tourism industry.
“We have written to the union minister to increase the supply that they have given to the state. There is no shortage of LPG for domestic use, but there is a gap in supply for commercial cylinders.
“If we need 100 number of commercial cylinders, we are getting 100, but as of now, we have a gap supply of 20 percent. So, if there is a requirement of 100, now we will be getting 20 percent out of it,” he said.
The Minister attributed the shortage to the cap imposed by the Centre and urged reconsideration, given Meghalaya’s status as a tourist destination.
“With the same argument, we have asked the Centre to reconsider this cap supply and to increase supply of LPG in Meghalaya from 20 percent to 50 or 60 percent,” he said.
He said the government is taking steps to ensure that there are no hoardings or black-marketing, with committees headed by the Chief Secretary and district administration monitoring the situation.
“As of now, there will be some shortage in the restaurants and hotels, but the situation is improved compared to last two-three weeks, and action has been taken from my side and department to increase the supply of LPG,” he said.
He also also assured that there is no shortage of petrol and diesel in Meghalaya, despite global uncertainties.
Dkhar said, “Regarding the situation all around the world, there is an anticipation that there could be some shortage or there could be some supply shortage but that is not confirmed. As of now in Meghalaya, we don’t have a shortage of petrol and diesel.”
