Ernakulam has domestic LPG stock for 25 days, consumers need not panic, says Collector

Ernakulam District Collector G. Priyanka on Saturday, March 14, 2026, assured that there is no disruption in the supply of domestic LPG cylinders in Ernakulam district and there is no need for consumers to panic. The collector said cooking gas companies are equipped with stocks for the next 25 days. He gave this assurance after calling an emergency meeting of stakeholders to assess the situation, amid concerns over nationwide LPG shortage due to conflict in West Asia.

The collector said that the sudden increase in reservations caused some technical glitches in the oil companies’ software and efforts were on to fix them.

“It is illegal to distribute gas cylinders on a ‘cash and carry’ basis directly from agencies. So there is no need for consumers to go to agencies or godowns,” said Ms. Priyanka. He said distributors have been instructed to give priority to consumers who prefer single cylinder only.

Supply priority

He said uninterrupted supply of commercial cylinders has been ensured for hospitals, educational institutions, orphanages and elderly care homes recognized by the Department of Social Justice.

The Collector said inspections have been strengthened to prevent irregularities in distribution of cooking gas in the district. “Nine teams have been deployed in 7 taluks in the district to take action if any irregularities are detected,” he said. Teams comprising taluk procurement officers, city ration card officers and ration card inspectors have been tasked to prevent malpractices, including hoarding and overpricing.

The collector also directed the police to register a case against those found in possession of more than 100 kg of cooking gas without permission. The officer warned that those using the cylinders for domestic purposes as opposed to commercial needs would also face strict sanctions. He said monitoring cells will also operate during holidays to address complaints regarding cooking gas distribution at district and taluk supply offices.

Distribution agencies, representatives of oil companies and officials of the Consumer Affairs Department also attended the meeting held at the collector’s camp office.