By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 28: The Directorate of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (DFCS&CA) on Saturday assured that there is no disruption in the supply of domestic LPG cylinders across Meghalaya, with distribution continuing normally throughout the state.
The clarification comes in response to recent media reports, including those published in The Shillong Times, which highlighted consumer concerns over possible shortages.
In a statement, the Directorate said the state government is closely monitoring the situation to ensure uninterrupted supply to all genuine consumers. While domestic LPG supply had largely remained stable after the Government of India’s rationing directive issued on March 11, a temporary disruption was noticed after March 20. This was attributed to a combination of factors, including policy adjustments, the mandatory rollout of Aadhaar-based e-KYC authentication, hesitation among some distributors, and panic buying triggered by misinformation.
The Directorate noted that the situation has improved significantly since March 24. Official data shows that between March 25 and 27, a total of 22,094 domestic LPG cylinders were supplied across the state, with an average daily distribution of around 7,300–7,400 cylinders — comparable to pre-disruption levels. Logistics have also picked up, with up to 30 truckloads moving per day.
However, the Directorate acknowledged that commercial LPG continues to face constraints due to a supply cap imposed by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Considering Meghalaya’s heavy reliance on tourism and the hospitality sector, and the absence of piped natural gas (PNG) infrastructure in the state, the government has taken up the matter with the Centre, requesting relaxation in the quota. To strengthen oversight, monitoring has been intensified through state and district-level LPG committees. Daily inspections are being conducted, and reports are regularly sent to the Ministry. A high-level review meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary on March 27 discussed supply logistics and long-term solutions.
An on-ground check in Shillong’s Jail Road area found that distribution at Sunny Indane Gas Agency was ongoing, though some crowding was observed as consumers preferred to collect cylinders directly rather than opt for doorstep delivery.
The DFCS&CA has warned that strict action will be taken against hoarding, black marketing, or overcharging. It urged the public not to panic or engage in unnecessary stockpiling of cylinders.
The Directorate also reiterated the government’s firm commitment to ensuring smooth and uninterrupted LPG supply for the people.
