Kerala govt seeks additional six percent LPG supply for commercial use, writes to Centre

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has requested the Centre to allocate an additional 6% of LPG cylinders for commercial use. Steps have already been taken to supply 40% of the cylinders available for restaurants, based on the Centre’s earlier announcement to increase commercial LPG supply. The new request is for an additional 6% over this allocation.

Additional Chief Secretary Dr Rajan N. Khobragade has written to Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, seeking the increase.

The letter states that an extra 6% LPG allocation is needed to support priority sectors such as restaurants, hotels, and canteens. To avail the initially announced 40% increase in commercial cylinders, restaurants and other establishments must register as consumers with fuel company distribution agencies. Unregistered restaurants and commercial establishments have been asked to complete registration immediately. An SOS facility has also been set up on the web portal www.lpgtrackerkerala.in for institutions in urgent need.

The allocation of cylinders will be subject to approval from district collectors and verification by district supply officers, taluk supply officers, and rationing inspectors.

Priority sectors

• Hotels, restaurants, dhabas, industrial canteens, food processing units, dairy units, government-run subsidised canteens, and community kitchens will be given priority.
• Distribution of 5 kg LPG cylinders for migrant workers will also be prioritised.
• In areas where piped natural gas (PNG) connections are available, commercial and industrial consumers are advised to apply with the respective city gas distribution agencies.