MAPUSA
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao on Monday raised concerns in the Goa Legislative Assembly over a recent order issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas directing oil refining companies and public sector oil marketing companies to supply LPG solely for domestic consumers.
Alemao said the order, issued on March 5 under the provisions of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and the Petroleum Products (Maintenance of Production, Storage and Supply) Order, 1999, has created fear and anxiety among hoteliers, restaurant owners, caterers, and operators of small eateries and canteens across Goa.
While acknowledging the need to ensure uninterrupted LPG supply to households, Alemao warned that restricting LPG exclusively for domestic use could severely impact the hospitality sector, which largely depends on LPG as its primary cooking fuel. He said such a move could paralyse hotels, restaurants and catering establishments in the State, thereby affecting the tourism industry and the livelihoods of thousands of workers.
The Opposition leader urged the Goa government to urgently open a dialogue with the Union ministry and hold consultations with stakeholders to ensure priority LPG supply to households while allowing regulated supply for hotels, restaurants and other food establishments.
