Odisha Cracks Down on LPG Delivery Delays
State orders oil companies to tighten supply chains, boost safety checks, and ensure uninterrupted access to cooking gas
Bhubaneswar: In a move to strengthen consumer protection and guarantee smooth access to cooking gas, the Odisha government has issued strict instructions to public-sector oil companies, stressing the need for reliable LPG delivery and stronger oversight of safety standards. The directives were issued during a high-level review meeting chaired by Sanjay Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary of the Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare Department.
Singh made it clear that the state would tolerate “no compromise” on timely cylinder delivery, stating that consumers across Odisha must receive their refills without delay. With demand rising and occasional supply gaps being reported from rural and urban regions, the government has urged oil marketing companies to stabilise their stock levels and strengthen their distribution networks.
A major area of concern highlighted during the meeting was the increasing circulation of 5-kg LPG cylinders that reportedly lack proper safety checks. Singh directed officials to launch immediate investigations into these complaints, monitor the market closely, and conduct surprise inspections at bottling plants and gas agencies. The state also plans to take strict action against black marketing and unauthorised refilling centres, which pose serious safety risks to consumers.
To enhance supply reliability, the Principal Secretary instructed companies to establish multiple sourcing channels for cylinders, ensuring that disruptions at one bottling point do not trigger statewide shortages. The department is also working to create a more resilient supply chain by encouraging better coordination between transporters, distributors, and local authorities.
The meeting dedicated significant time to addressing operational bottlenecks raised by consumers, dealers, and oil marketing companies. While consumers have reported delays and inconsistent delivery schedules, dealers flagged logistical challenges that sometimes impact dispatch timelines. The government emphasised a collaborative, problem-solving approach to eliminate these pain points and ensure uniform access to cooking fuel across all districts.
Senior officials and representatives from major oil companies participated in the review, reflecting the seriousness of the state’s intervention. Among those present were Indian Oil Chief General Manager Naro Tundup, HPCL Deputy General Manager M. N. Srinivas, BPCL State Head Raj Kumar Singh, Chief Manager Pranali Meshram, IOCL Chief Manager K.C. Seth, and Additional Director Salauddin Khan.
With these directives, Odisha aims to create a more transparent, responsive, and consumer-friendly LPG distribution ecosystem—one that prioritises safety, timely service, and uninterrupted access to an essential household necessity.
