CM says state has one-month stock amid price rise concerns; monitoring supply chain closely; help cell for Goans in Gulf
PANAJI
Amid escalating tensions in parts of the Gulf region and concerns over a possible rise in fuel prices, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday assured the Goa Legislative Assembly that the State has sufficient stock of LPG and diesel and that there will be no shortage of commercial LPG supply for industries, including the tourism and hospitality sector.
Addressing the House, Sawant said the government is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant touch with LPG suppliers to ensure uninterrupted availability. “There is no shortage at present. We have around one month’s stock of LPG and we will ensure that commercial supply is maintained,” the Chief Minister said, adding that the State will take steps to prevent any disruption to businesses dependent on cooking gas.
The assurance came after concerns were raised by Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao over a recent advisory issued by the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas directing oil companies to prioritise LPG supply for domestic consumers under the Essential Commodities Act.
Alemao warned that restrictions on non-domestic LPG supply could severely impact Goa’s tourism, hotel and hospitality sector, with hoteliers, restaurants and catering establishments worried about a potential shortage.
BJP MLA Michael Lobo also urged the government to ensure that prices of petrol, diesel and LPG do not rise sharply, noting that any increase would affect both households and businesses.
Responding to the concerns, Sawant clarified that fuel pricing decisions are beyond the State government as they are linked to global market factors, but assured that the government would review the possibility of reducing VAT if required to ease the burden.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister said the State government is also monitoring the safety of Goans residing in Gulf countries amid the evolving situation in the region. He announced that a dedicated help cell will be set up through the NRI office within two days to assist Goans who may require support.
He informed the House that two Goan families have already returned safely from the Gulf and that the government is in constant touch with the Indian Embassy and the Ministry of External Affairs.
AAP MLA Venzy Viegas said around 2.5 lakh Goans are currently residing in Middle East countries and urged the government to remain prepared for any eventuality.
Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai also called for a structured communication mechanism with the Goan diaspora in the region and sought details on the number of Goans working in Gulf countries, the value of remittances and the possible economic impact of rising fuel prices.
Sawant also cautioned people against illegal recruitment agents sending workers abroad, stating that 18 such agents have been booked so far, with FIRs registered and chargesheets filed.
