Chandigarh, March 11 – Punjab Food and Civil Supplies Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak appealed to the Union government on Wednesday to ensure that there is no shortage of essential commodities such as LPG, petrol, and diesel, given the ongoing war-like situation in the West Asian region.
During a meeting with representatives from the Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), the Minister emphasized the need for coordinated measures to maintain uninterrupted supply and prevent public panic.
Addressing the meeting, Minister Kataruchak said, "In light of the ongoing conflict in the West Asian region, the Union government must ensure that there is no shortage of essential commodities such as LPG, petrol, and diesel, so that the public does not face any inconvenience."
The Minister further urged the high-powered committee constituted by the Union government to remain vigilant and take necessary steps to maintain adequate supplies.
"The high-powered committee constituted by the Union government must ensure that there is no public panic due to the volatile situation in West Asia," he added.
The Minister also directed senior department officials to closely monitor the situation at the district level.
He instructed them to convene meetings with Deputy Commissioners and District Food Supply Controllers, while involving representatives from gas companies, to ensure seamless coordination.
"Senior department officials should hold meetings with the Deputy Commissioners and District Food Supply Controllers, also involving representatives from gas companies, to ensure that there is no disruption in the supply of essential commodities," Kataruchak said.
Warning against any attempt to manipulate the supply of essential goods, the Minister made it clear that strict action would be taken against violators.
"No illegal hoarding of essential items should take place. Anyone indulging in hoarding must be strictly proceeded against," Kataruchak added.