Itanagar, April 7 Arunachal Pradesh Food and Civil Supplies Minister Gabriel Denang Wangsu emphasized the need for equitable distribution of petroleum products across the state and warned of strict action against black marketing and hoarding.
The minister, along with chief secretary Manish Kumar Gupta, was holding a state-level review meeting on the availability and supply of motor spirit (MS), high-speed diesel (HSD), and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) here on Monday.
Emphasizing coordinated efforts, the minister directed all stakeholders to maintain close coordination and promptly resolve any localized supply issues, an official communique said here on Tuesday.
Wangsu warned that strict action would be taken against individuals or agencies involved in black marketing or hoarding of LPG and other petroleum products, with prosecution to be initiated under the relevant provisions of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
"Following a detailed district-wise status report, it is reassuring to note that supplies are being maintained effectively. We also discussed a strategic approach to supply management and continued efforts to streamline our distribution networks to ensure long-term stability," the minister said in a social media post after the meeting.
The chief secretary reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring the uninterrupted availability of fuel and swift resolution of any supply disruptions.
The meeting was also attended by food and civil supplies secretary Kanto Dangen, director, the state-level coordinator of oil marketing companies (OMCs), and other senior officials of the department.
During the meeting, the secretary briefed on the action taken on decisions from the previous review meeting held on February 13. He said that the current stock position of petroleum products across districts remains adequate and that the supply and distribution of MS, HSD, and LPG are normal throughout the state.
Officials also stated that the administrative machinery in all districts is fully prepared to handle any situation related to fuel supply.
The state level coordinator of OMCs presented an overview of the supply position and confirmed that the availability of petroleum products is adequate to meet the state’s demand in the foreseeable future, with transportation and distribution networks functioning smoothly and no bottlenecks reported.
Both the minister and the chief secretary appealed to the public to avoid panic buying and refrain from rumour mongering, urging citizens not to rely on unverified or misleading information and to act responsibly.