Govt seeks daily stock updates from oil companies; commercial supply curtailed to prevent panic buying
PANAJI
The State government has insisted on stronger communication with oil marketing companies (OMCs) amid an emerging cooking gas supply crunch, with authorities asking for daily updates on LPG stocks and the supply of other petroleum products to avoid confusion over distribution in Goa.
Sources at the Secretariat told The Goan that the administration has begun closely monitoring LPG availability across the State, even as the Union government directed that domestic cooking gas for households will continue to be prioritised.
The State has suggested Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum to assess the current stock position and disruptions in the supply chain.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has already stated that non-domestic supplies have been restricted and are being prioritised for hospitals, educational institutions, defence establishments, crematoriums and religious trusts.
In its order on March 9, the ministry stated that uninterrupted supply of LPG for household cooking is necessary in the public interest.
The pan-India shortage owing to the geopolitical tensions has triggered concern in Goa’s hospitality and tourism sector, which relies heavily on commercial LPG cylinders for restaurants, beach shacks and catering services.
Industry stakeholders have warned that the shortage, if not stabilised soon, will force several establishments to shut their businesses.
Within the government, the immediate focus has shifted to preventing panic buying while ensuring greater transparency in supply. Sources said the State has asked oil companies to begin sharing daily stock data and distribution figures of LPGs and Motor Spirit (petrol)/High-Speed Diesel to avoid confusion and speculation about shortages.
However, the OMCs have expressed reservations pending instructions from higher-ups with the State seeking better communication from the other end.
Meanwhile, restrictions have already begun tightening the supply chain. While commercial LPG supplies have been limited to priority sectors, domestic distribution has also been streamlined, with bookings now permitted only through OTP-based systems. Over-the-counter bookings have been discontinued, and the gap between bookings has been extended from 15 days to 25 days.
