THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In view of the cut in kerosene allocation, Kerala has written to the Union Department of Food and Public Distribution requesting to allow the distribution of kerosene once every six months through ration shops. Following the cut in quota, the priority category will get only one-quarter litre of kerosene every three months. On the grounds that handling costs would increase, associations of ration traders had informed the government that they would not supply kerosene. They did not take new stock either.

The government had earlier considered distributing kerosene through selected ration shops. However, the ration traders complained that it would affect the business of other ration shops. As there is a portable system, rice and other items will be purchased from shops that buy kerosene.

Traders were left in a tizzy after the food department announced that the supply of kerosene for the three months ending in June will begin from tomorrow. Yellow card will get 1 litre and pink card will get half a litre. Traders say that they cannot supply as usual due to non-stocking. The remaining kerosene at present is not enough to supply everyone. There is a situation where those who come to buy kerosene get angry at ration shop owners. At the same time, the officials of the food department said that no instruction has been given to the shop owners to not to take stock and it is their duty to supply.