West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday criticised the Centre over disruptions in Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) supply, saying the current situation reflects a "lack of planning" at the national level. The comments come amid concerns about cooking gas availability following supply disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict.
Banerjee said the Centre imposed restrictions without ensuring adequate reserves of LPG and petroleum products, which has resulted in shortages affecting households and businesses.
Emergency meeting at Nabanna
Addressing the issue, Banerjee said she has called an emergency meeting with LPG dealers and officials at the state secretariat Nabanna to explore possible solutions.
"Despite financial constraints, I want to give subsidies. But it won’t help because there is no LPG supply. From the village to the city, everyone is facing problems. I have called an emergency meeting with LPG dealers and officials at the state secretariat Nabanna on Thursday to discuss ways to address the situation. Some alternatives need to be considered. I will see what can be done," she was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.
She also announced that a protest march will be organised in Kolkata next Monday against the recent rise in LPG prices.
'25-day rule created panic'
Banerjee said anxiety among consumers grew after the introduction of a rule requiring a minimum 25-day gap between two LPG bookings.
"Why did they say people will not get gas if 25 days have not passed between two bookings? That announcement itself created panic. One should think of alternatives before making such statements," Banerjee said.
According to her, people across both rural and urban areas have been facing difficulties due to supply delays.
Demand for Centre's intervention
The Chief Minister urged the Union Petroleum Ministry to prioritise public needs and ensure steady supply of cooking gas across the country.
"Our demand to the Petroleum Ministry is that it should think about the people first. Gas supply is not in the hands of the state government. The Centre can conduct SIR and delete voters, but it cannot manage the country's gas and oil reserves. Requirements of the commercial establishments, home cooking gas, mid day meals should be met. We want the Centre to take immediate action," she said.
Banerjee also claimed that the absence of a clear policy framework was indirectly encouraging black market activities.
Ripple effects across sectors
Concerns over LPG supply have begun affecting several sectors. Reports indicate that some autorickshaw fares have increased on certain routes, while eateries have raised food prices due to higher fuel costs.
Also Read | Kolkata likely to see rain and thunderstorms today, IMD issues yellow alert for several districts
"Those who have increased the price, their reasoning is correct. But people need to think. Alternatives should be thought of for the sake of people. We don't have money, even then I want to help. The 25-day announcement was the biggest mistake. This is my objection. I will think of an alternative and then announce it," said Banerjee.
Amid the ongoing concerns, Banerjee also held a separate meeting with oil companies at the "Soujanyo" hall in Alipore on Wednesday. State Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty was present at the meeting.
Residents have reportedly been receiving LPG cylinders 8-10 days after booking, adding to the pressure on households and businesses.
