By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 20: There is no shortage of petrol and diesel in Meghalaya at present, and the recent hike in fuel prices was a decision taken by the Centre and not by the state government, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Methodius Dkhar clarified on Wednesday.
Following two price hikes within a span of five days, petrol price in Shillong has gone up to Rs 99.63 per litre while diesel is priced at Rs 90.94.
Speaking to media persons on the rise in prices of petrol, diesel and essential commodities in view of the ongoing US-Iran war, the minister urged the public not to panic, while advising people to remain cautious about the global situation.
“Do not panic, but be cautious,” Dkhar said, adding that war affects not only petroleum products but also several other commodities linked to transportation and supply chains.
He cautioned that if the conflict continues, there could be another increase in the prices of petrol and diesel in the coming days. According to him, any rise in fuel prices also leads to a slight increase in the prices of essential commodities.
The minister, however, assured that the state is currently in a comfortable position with regard to LPG supplies. He informed that the government has regulations in place whereby an LPG card holder cannot refill a domestic cylinder before 25 days.
On commercial LPG, Dkhar admitted that there is some shortage at present, but stated that Meghalaya is still receiving around 60 to 65 per cent of its requirement.
The minister reiterated that the government is closely monitoring the situation and appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary panic-buying.
