Chandigarh, April 7 (IANS) Haryana Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting here to review the distribution of LPG cylinders, including 5 kg free trade LPG (FTL) cylinders, and the status of the piped natural gas (PNG) network in the state.

At the virtual meeting, the Chief Secretary directed all Deputy Commissioners to ensure last-mile delivery of LPG cylinders, with special attention to rural areas. They were directed to closely monitor the distribution of FTL cylinders and PNG connectivity and ensure that new LPG connections are issued in a time-bound and transparent manner.

Rastogi emphasised the government remained fully committed to ensuring that no household in Haryana faces any inconvenience in accessing clean cooking fuel, and that the distribution machinery must remain alert and responsive at all times.

Commissioner and Secretary (Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs) J. Ganesan said domestic LPG cylinders are being supplied across the state without any disruption in the supply chain. “There is absolutely no shortage of domestic LPG in Haryana, and the situation is similar to the corresponding period last year,” he said.

In a significant development from March 28, public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs) have successfully resumed full commercial LPG supplies to hotels, restaurants, ‘dhabas’ and industries.

The meeting was informed that in March, OMCs together supplied 54.39 lakh domestic LPG cylinders.

The review meeting also placed special focus on the distribution of 5 kg FTL cylinders, which served as a convenient and affordable option for migrant labourers, smaller households, street vendors, and small eateries.

From April 1 to April 5, a total of 4,730 FTL cylinders were sold by the three OMCs.

Reflecting growing energy access and inclusion, 2,565 new LPG connections have been issued since March 15. Of these, 1,090 new connections were for 5 kg cylinders, 1,462 for 19 kg domestic cylinders and 13 for commercial 47.5 kg cylinders.

–IANS

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