JAMMU, MARCH 24 (KNS) : Asserting a zero-tolerance policy against those seeking to exploit the system, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Monday directed strict legal action against hoarding, black marketing, overcharging, and diversion of petroleum products, even as he assured that the overall stock of petrol, diesel, and LPG remains adequate across the Union Territory.
Chairing a comprehensive review meeting to assess the availability and distribution of petroleum products, Dulloo emphasized the need for strict vigilance at all levels to safeguard consumer interests. The meeting was attended by the Commissioner Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs; Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and Kashmir; Deputy Commissioners; senior officers of the Legal Metrology and Food Supply Departments; and representatives of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).
A detailed presentation revealed that the overall stock position across the Union Territory remains stable, with petrol stocks sufficient for approximately 9–10 days, diesel for 16–17 days, and LPG for around 12–13 days, including transit stock, ensuring uninterrupted availability.
The Chief Secretary was apprised of the present stock position of all major petroleum products, including Motor Spirit (MS), High Speed Diesel (HSD), aviation turbine fuel, and LPG. While noting that the overall situation remains satisfactory, he directed Deputy Commissioners to furnish detailed district-wise reports on availability and stressed that all eligible domestic and commercial consumers must receive LPG supplies without delay, with priority accorded to genuine beneficiaries.
Underscoring the importance of doorstep delivery of LPG, Dulloo directed OMCs to maintain adequate stock levels at retail outlets, dealer points, and buffer depots. He also instructed the Commissioner Secretary, FCS&CA, to conduct regular reviews with district administrations and maintain close coordination to keep higher authorities informed.
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On the infrastructure front, the Chief Secretary directed the Divisional Commissioner and concerned Deputy Commissioners to resolve land acquisition and other bottlenecks to facilitate the early operationalisation of the under-construction gas pipeline. He also asked Urban Local Bodies to prioritise domestic connections once the trunk pipeline becomes operational in the districts of Kathua, Samba, Jammu, and Udhampur.
Officials informed the meeting that 100 per cent domestic LPG demand is being met across J&K, with seamless distribution and no major complaints reported. Supply coverage stands at about 24 days in urban areas and 35 days in rural areas, with OTP-based delivery systems ensuring transparency.
Highlighting enforcement efforts, it was reported that 1,418 inspections and raids were conducted across districts between March 17 and 23, resulting in action against violators and seizure of commodities in several cases. Additionally, over 1,000 public grievances were addressed promptly, reflecting an efficient grievance redressal mechanism.
As part of alternate fuel arrangements, all Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families are being provided 2 litres of kerosene oil per month through Aadhaar-seeded ration cards under the RCMS system.
The meeting also noted significant progress in streamlining LPG distribution through large-scale e-KYC verification, with nearly 20 lakh consumers already verified. It was further informed that under the commercial category, the Government of India has enhanced allocation from 20 per cent to 50 per cent of assessed supply.
Regarding the pipeline project, officials apprised that the Union Territory is compliant with all incentive conditions. The pipeline is currently being laid in Kathua, Samba, and Jammu districts and is expected to become operational within the next two to three months. (KNS)