Minister says LPG cylinder booking to ease in 2 days:Urges people to limit large gatherings; appeals not to hoard cylinders

Due to escalating war tensions between Iran, Israel, and the US in the Middle East, people in Madhya Pradesh have been worried about LPG cylinder booking and availability for the past few days. A chaotic situation has emerged, with long queues outside gas agencies and some offices remaining locked. The non-availability of commercial cylinders has also created a food crisis in more than 50,000 hotels, restaurants, and tiffin centres. Amid this situation, Dainik Bhaskar spoke to the state’s Food and Civil Supplies Minister, Govind Singh Rajput, whose department is responsible for the supply of gas cylinders in Madhya Pradesh. Read Bhaskar’s full conversation with Govind Singh Rajput What is the current situation of LPG gas in Madhya Pradesh? Govind Singh Rajput said there is no shortage of diesel, petrol, or LPG in Madhya Pradesh and sufficient stock is available. He appealed to people not to create panic. He said around 50% of domestic gas is produced in India, while the rest is arranged by the central government through imports from Gulf countries such as Kuwait and Oman. India is also planning to import 20% additional gas, so there is no need to worry in MP or the rest of the country. The wedding season is ongoing, and people’s programs are fixed, but they are not receiving cylinder supply. What has been considered for its solution? Rajput said department officials and collectors have discussed the issue. Many people are voluntarily using induction stoves and other alternatives to reduce commercial gas usage. The government is trying to ensure supply continues, but he personally advised people to limit large events for some time considering the situation, even though there is no crisis. What arrangements are there for tiffin centres? He said tiffin centres are not closed, and the main problem occurred due to a server outage that prevented bookings. After a meeting with Deputy Chief Minister Devda and officials, the IT team was called in. The server issue will be fixed within two days, after which people will be able to book cylinders normally. He reiterated that there is no shortage of commercial or domestic gas. What is your opinion on the 25 to 45-day system implemented by the central government for cylinder refilling? Rajput said one cylinder usually lasts 25–30 days in a household. Problems arise when people panic and start stocking three or four cylinders. The refill interval system was introduced to prevent hoarding and ensure everyone receives a regular supply. What action is the government taking against black marketeers and rumour-mongers? He said the government is very strict. Collectors and commissioners have been instructed, and the Chief Secretary has also held meetings. The Chief Minister has directed officials to take strict action against black marketeers, bribe-takers, and rumour-mongers. So far, raids have been conducted at 115 locations, 350 cylinders have been seized, and FIRs have been registered against two people. You talked about the use of traditional and alternative fuels, but in cities, the administration takes action against burning coal ovens or tandoors. How do you view this? Rajput said the discussion is about using traditional fuels like wood where possible, while electric induction is the best option in cities. Many hotel operators have themselves informed officials that they are shifting towards electric induction and alternative ovens to manage the situation. Govt’s plan for the people of Madhya Pradesh stranded abroad, especially in war zones? He said three control rooms have been set up for assistance, one at MP Bhawan in Delhi, one at Vallabh Bhawan, and another through the CM Helpline (181). The government is in constant contact with those stranded abroad, and efforts are underway for their safe evacuation. A permanent Food Department representative has also been deployed in the control room to resolve issues immediately.