CHANDIGARH, March 13, 2026: Amidst growing concerns over an LPG shortage across the country due to the ongoing West Asia crisis (Iran-Israel conflict), Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has stepped in to clarify the situation. He urged citizens not to fall prey to rumors and appealed to the public to refrain from panic-buying or hoarding gas cylinders.
State Government on High Alert
The Chief Minister stated that the Punjab government is closely monitoring the situation. He clarified that the administration is in constant touch with the Central Government and major oil companies—including IOCL, HPCL, and BPCL—to ensure a steady supply. He reassured the people of Punjab that there will be no shortage of domestic cooking gas in the state.
Strict Instructions to Deputy Commissioners
CM Mann has issued a series of directives to the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of all districts:
- Market Surveillance: Maintain a strict vigil on the supply chain and market prices of gas cylinders.
- Action Against Black Marketing: Immediate legal action must be taken against any agency or individual found involved in black marketing or illegal hoarding of cylinders.
- Public Awareness: Ensure accurate information reaches the public to prevent any sense of panic in the market.
Assembly Resolution Passed
Notably, the Punjab Assembly has passed a resolution regarding this issue, holding the Center’s foreign policy responsible for the current energy challenges. While acknowledging that commercial LPG supply has faced some disruptions affecting the hospitality sector, the Chief Minister emphasized that efforts are underway to normalize the supply chain completely.