Jammu, Mar 31 (JKNS): Minister Satish Sharma on Tuesday asserted that ensuring uninterrupted LPG supply remains a top priority, as he conducted a detailed inspection of bottling plants at Bari Brahmana and reviewed stock availability, logistics, and safety measures to prevent any disruption or malpractice in the supply chain.
Miniater Satish Sharma, as per news agency JKNS, undertook a detailed inspection of LPG bottling plants operated by Indian Oil Corporation Limited and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited at Bari Brahmana, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring seamless availability of essential commodities to the public.
During his visit, the Minister carried out a comprehensive on-ground assessment of plant operations, including cylinder filling processes, storage facilities, safety protocols, and dispatch systems. He interacted extensively with senior officials, plant managers, and field staff to gain first-hand insight into operational efficiency and challenges, if any, being faced at the ground level.
Sharma reviewed in detail the current stock position of LPG cylinders and evaluated the daily bottling capacity of both plants. He was informed that the plants are functioning at optimal capacity and are adequately equipped to cater to the growing demand across Jammu and surrounding regions.
A significant focus of the inspection was on the supply chain logistics, particularly the movement of LPG from major supply hubs in Bhatinda and Jalandhar. Officials briefed the Minister about the streamlined transportation mechanism and real-time monitoring systems in place to ensure timely replenishment of stocks.
Oil Marketing Company (OMC) Officials informed the Minsiter that In order to curb black marketing and hoarding of LPG cylinders, Digital methods like online booking, e-KYC and Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) validation for refill deliveries have been implemented. This will strengthen the LPG supply chain and will further ensure LPG refills to genuine beneficiaries only, he was told.
The Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust and responsive supply chain, especially in view of fluctuating demand patterns.
Expressing satisfaction over the overall functioning, Sharma nevertheless underscored the need for constant vigilance and proactive planning. He directed the concerned authorities to maintain sufficient buffer stocks at all times and to further strengthen coordination between bottling plants, transport networks, and distribution agencies to avoid any potential bottlenecks.
“LPG is an essential household commodity, and ensuring its uninterrupted availability is a core responsibility of the government. We will not tolerate any disruption in supply, nor will we allow any malpractice such as hoarding, black marketing, or artificial scarcity,” the Minister asserted firmly.
He further instructed enforcement teams of the FCS&CA Department to remain vigilant in the market and take strict action against any violations. Stressing transparency and accountability, Sharma called for leveraging technology to enhance tracking and monitoring of LPG distribution right up to the consumer level.
The Minister also reviewed safety standards at the plants and directed officials to ensure strict adherence to all prescribed safety norms to safeguard both workers and infrastructure. He appreciated the efforts of the staff in maintaining high operational standards and urged them to continue working with dedication and efficiency.
Reiterating the government’s people-centric approach, Sharma assured that all necessary measures are being taken to strengthen the supply chain and ensure that no consumer faces inconvenience in accessing LPG.
Senior officers from the FCS&CA Department, along with representatives of IOCL and HPCL, accompanied the Minister during the visit. (JKNS)
