Arunachal Pradesh Minister Gabriel on March 13 said that the supply and availability of LPG cylinders and petroleum products in the state remain normal, urging people not to engage in panic buying that could lead to artificial shortages.
After reviewing the situation with senior officials, the civil supplies and consumer affairs minister said the government is closely monitoring the distribution of LPG and petroleum, oil and lubricants (POL) products across all districts to ensure uninterrupted supply.
In a post on X, Wangsu said he chaired a review meeting with the chief secretary, officials from the food and civil supplies department, representatives of oil marketing companies, and deputy commissioners from different districts.
He said both the state government and oil companies have confirmed that the supply chain is functioning smoothly.
“The state food and civil supplies department and the oil marketing companies assure that the supplies of LPG and POL products are operating normally and their distributions are being constantly monitored to ensure continuous availability,” the minister said.
Wangsu also appealed to residents not to resort to panic buying and to purchase fuel only according to their regular needs.
“We urge the general public to avoid panic buying of LPG and POL products and purchase only what is needed for normal consumption so that artificial shortages are not created,” he said.
As a precautionary step to prevent hoarding and ensure fair distribution, the state government has introduced a waiting period between LPG bookings.
The minister said a mandatory gap of 25 days between LPG bookings has been implemented as a preventive measure.
He also warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found hoarding or engaging in black marketing of LPG or petroleum products.
Individuals involved in creating artificial scarcity could face legal action under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and other relevant provisions, he added.
Wangsu further urged people not to spread rumours or circulate unverified information on social media, noting that such messages could create unnecessary panic among consumers.
The minister’s statement comes at a time when concerns have been reported in several parts of the country over rising LPG prices and supply pressures, which have led to anxiety among consumers and occasional panic buying in certain regions.
The recent hike in domestic LPG prices has also increased the burden on households already dealing with inflation, making the affordability of cooking gas a significant concern in many states.
