By Agartala Correspondent | Tripura 24.in AGARTALA | April 1, 2026
AGARTALA: To quell rising public anxiety and counter unfounded rumors, the Department of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs held an important press conference today at Gurkhabosti. Addressing the media, senior officials categorically stated that Tripura has sufficient reserves of petroleum products and cooking gas (LPG), and there is absolutely no cause for panic.
The briefing was led by Shri Debapriya Bardhan, Special Secretary of the Food Department, in the presence of Shri Sumit Lodh, Director of the Food Department.
Fuel and Gas Supplies Remain Stable
The press conference was organized following reports of panic buying at several petrol pumps across the state, triggered by global geopolitical tensions. Special Secretary Debapriya Bardhan clarified that the state’s supply chain is fully functional and monitored daily.
Key Updates from the Department:
- No Fuel Shortage: The state currently holds a stable stock of petrol and diesel. Consignments are arriving as per the regular schedule via rail and road.
- LPG Status: The Bodhjungnagar LPG Bottling Plant is operating at full capacity, supplying five districts, while the remaining three districts are being serviced through Silchar.
- Prioritized Distribution: While commercial LPG supply is being maintained at approximately 70–90%, the government is ensuring 100% supply to priority sectors, including healthcare and education.
- PNG Expansion: Officials noted that there are currently around 70,000 to 90,000 Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections in the state, with plans for further expansion to reduce dependence on cylinders.
Warning Against Hoarding and Rumors
Shri Bardhan urged the citizens not to fall prey to misinformation or engage in “panic hoarding,” which creates artificial crises.
”We have thoroughly reviewed our reserves, and I want to assure the people of Tripura that we have adequate stocks of petrol, diesel, and gas. The situation is completely normal. The department has also issued strict instructions to all dealers and distributors to prevent any form of black marketing. Stringent legal action will be taken against anyone found hoarding essential commodities,” the Special Secretary asserted.
Strategic Measures
To maintain stability, the department has standardized the LPG procurement timeline: 25 days for urban areas and 45 days for rural areas, in alignment with central government guidelines. Additionally, the price of a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder was noted to be ₹2,587 as of today.
Director Sumit Lodh added that the department is in constant touch with Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) officials to ensure that the “buffer stock” remains sufficient for at least the next month, even in the event of minor logistical disruptions.
