The Department of Food and Civil Supplies has launched a state-wide crackdown to curb the black-marketing and illegal storage of Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) in Madhya Pradesh. Food and Civil Supplies Minister Govind Singh Rajput stated that under the Essential Commodities Act, raids have been conducted at 2,866 locations across the state so far. During this major operation, the department seized 4,283 LPG cylinders, and 11 FIRs have been registered for serious irregularities. Intensive inspections are also being carried out at petrol pumps, where one pump was booked following the inspection of 738 retail outlets.

 

The Government is rapidly moving toward making Piped Natural Gas (PNG) a mandatory alternative for domestic fuel. Following a departmental review, Additional Chief Secretary Rashmi Arun Shami has set a strict target to provide PNG connections to 1.5 lakh households within the next three months. The government has issued a clear warning to consumers in areas where PNG pipelines have already been laid: if a connection is not taken within the next three months, the supply of LPG cylinders in those areas may be completely discontinued.

 

To facilitate this, City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities have been directed to set up special camps in various city localities in coordination with the district administration. While the crackdown on black-marketing continues, steps have also been taken to assist the general public. Govind Singh Rajput has issued instructions to prioritise the supply of commercial cylinders to small businessmen (street vendors) operating on the roads. Additionally, oil companies are providing 5 kg small cylinders for migrant labourers and students studying away from home. To meet the rising demand, working hours (Extended Hours) at gas bottling plants have been increased to ensure there are no delays in distribution. Under the new policy, the expansion of PNG will not be limited to residential homes.

 

Police headquarters, officers’ colonies, defence establishments, and houses under the general administration pool are being shifted to piped gas on a priority basis. Industrial units are also being identified to extend the benefits of PNG infrastructure to industrial areas. The Government clarified that the state has an adequate stock of petroleum products and crude oil. To expedite the pipeline laying process, the department is now issuing Right of Way (ROU) approvals within 24 hours of application to ensure no disruption in the supply network.