Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday urged the Government of India to immediately ensure enhanced and uninterrupted supply of petrol, diesel, and DAP fertiliser in view of the upcoming wheat harvesting season, warning that any disruption could adversely impact national food security.
Addressing a press conference here, the Chief Minister said Punjab is gearing up for a wheat harvest estimated at around 14 million metric tonnes, and smooth availability of fuel will be critical for harvesting operations and transportation of grains. He emphasised that large-scale deployment of tractors, trolleys, harvesters, and trucks during the season necessitates a steady and increased supply of petroleum products in the larger public interest.
Mann stated that he had raised the issue during a virtual meeting with the Prime Minister on Friday evening, highlighting the urgency of maintaining an uninterrupted fuel supply to ensure seamless procurement and movement of wheat. “All necessary steps must be taken in time to safeguard the country’s food security,” he said.
Reassuring the public, the Chief Minister said there is no cause for panic, adding that the state currently has sufficient reserves. He informed that Punjab has a stock of petrol and diesel adequate for 12 to 14 days and around six days of LPG, which is consistent with normal levels maintained throughout the year. He further noted that fuel supply remains uninterrupted and that the Centre has already secured substantial reserves at the national level, including around 60 days of petrol and diesel and 30 days of LPG.
He cautioned against hoarding and panic buying, asserting that strict action would be taken against black marketing. The Chief Secretary is closely monitoring the supply situation to ensure there are no disruptions, he added.
Sharing operational data, Mann said that as of Thursday, nearly 71,000 LPG refill requests had been received, of which about 69,000 had already been delivered. He also ruled out any possibility of a lockdown in the state, stating that all systems are functioning normally. During inspections at 1,497 locations, authorities seized 301 LPG cylinders as part of enforcement measures against irregularities.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the state government is committed to ensuring that both agriculture and industry continue to function without hindrance. To address public concerns, a dedicated helpline (0172-3321001) has been launched for issues related to LPG, petrol, and diesel supply.
Highlighting Punjab’s contribution to national food security, Mann said the state stands ready to supply 4.1 million metric tonnes of wheat from existing stocks, while an additional 14 million metric tonnes is expected from the current harvest. He added that Punjab is also prepared to contribute 13.9 million metric tonnes of paddy to the central pool, underlining the state’s longstanding role in supporting the country’s food requirements.
Welcoming the Centre’s recent decision to reduce additional taxes on petrol and diesel, Mann termed it a positive step towards boosting public confidence. He also called for ensuring the timely availability of DAP fertiliser, particularly with the paddy sowing season set to begin from June 1.
The Chief Minister further urged that the waiting period for LPG refills in rural areas, currently around 45 days, should be reduced to 25 days, on par with urban regions. Referring to his interaction with the Prime Minister, Mann said he had flagged all key issues concerning Punjab and appealed for proactive diplomatic and strategic measures to ensure that the country does not face shortages of essential resources.