Food Department Gears Up for Char Dham Yatra, Plans Additional LPG Supply
Dehradun: In view of the upcoming Char Dham Yatra and peak tourism season, the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department has stepped up preparations to meet the anticipated surge in demand for commercial LPG cylinders. The department is set to approach the Government of India for additional allocation to ensure uninterrupted supply during the yatra period.
Acting on the directions of the Chief Secretary, the department has conducted a detailed assessment of demand and finalized key points of a proposal to be sent to the Centre, aiming to prevent any supply disruptions.
High-Level Meeting with Oil Companies
A high-level review meeting was held on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Secretary (Food and Civil Supplies) Anand Swaroop, with senior officials from Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited.
The meeting focused on assessing demand projections, storage capacity, supply chain logistics, transportation arrangements, and distribution mechanisms during the yatra and tourism season.
Assurances of Smooth Supply for Pilgrims
Secretary Anand Swaroop stated that the influx of lakhs of pilgrims and tourists during the Char Dham Yatra significantly increases LPG consumption across hotels, dharamshalas, restaurants, dhabas, and guest houses. Keeping this in mind, the department is taking concrete steps to strengthen the supply system.
Oil marketing companies have been directed to ensure uninterrupted and balanced LPG supply under all circumstances, with adequate stock and robust logistics planning in advance.
Demand Estimated at Over 9.67 Lakh Cylinders
The department estimates that around 967,950 commercial LPG cylinders will be required between April and November in FY 2026–27 for approximately 14,901 registered commercial establishments across the state.
To meet this substantial demand, the state government will formally request additional allocation from the Centre.
Daily Supply Doubled
In recent days, oil companies have significantly increased LPG supply. The daily supply, which was earlier around 3,000 cylinders, has now been scaled up to over 6,000 cylinders per day, helping bridge the demand-supply gap.
Zero Tolerance Against Black Marketing
Following directions from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the department is implementing a strict zero-tolerance policy against black marketing, overcharging, and misuse of LPG cylinders. Intensive inspection and enforcement drives are being carried out across the state.
Action taken till March 31, 2026:
- 5,389 inspections conducted
- 87 raids carried out
- 16 FIRs registered
- 7 arrests made
- 699 domestic and 168 commercial cylinders seized
- Fine of ₹101,300 imposed
The Secretary emphasized that any negligence or irregularity will invite strict action.
Continuous Monitoring of Fuel Supply
Apart from LPG, the department is also closely monitoring the availability of petrol and diesel. Regular coordination with oil companies is being maintained to ensure that transportation, emergency services, and daily life remain unaffected.
With proactive planning, increased supply, and strict enforcement measures, the state government aims to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for pilgrims and businesses during the Char Dham Yatra, with no shortage of essential fuel supplies.
