Pune: Industries minister Uday Samant on Sunday said Pune has an adequate supply of LPG to meet both domestic and commercial demand, but reports of shortages in certain pockets have prompted the govt to initiate a probe into possible black marketing.Speaking after a review meeting with industrialists, district administration officials and police, Samant said authorities have been directed to investigate alleged irregularities that may be creating an artificial shortage.“Officials from the district supply office have informed me that the average daily demand for LPG cylinders in Pune ranges between 90,000 and 1 lakh, and sufficient stock is available. Despite this, complaints of shortages persist, and officials have been told to probe the reasons,” he said.Samant said several industrialists raised concerns about black marketing, alleging that LPG cylinders were being sold at prices ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000. “Officials and police have been instructed to act immediately and take suo motu cognisance of such cases, even if no formal complaint is filed,” he said.The meeting was held amid concerns over LPG availability following tensions in the Middle East. Samant assured that authorities have been directed to ensure an uninterrupted supply of both domestic and commercial cylinders. He also noted that the Union govt has established clear supply norms for cylinder allocation across consumer categories, and that current stock levels are sufficient to meet demand.The minister said the govt is also working to expand piped natural gas (PNG) connections for industries. While some industrial areas lack pipeline infrastructure, others have pipelines but have yet to take connections.“Camps will be organised in such areas to promote PNG adoption and expedite new connections. Regional officers will oversee these efforts under the supervision of the divisional commissioner,” Samant added.Addressing reports of panic buying and fuel shortages, Samant said petrol demand had surged by around 30% over the past three days due to rumours, but the situation normalised on Saturday.“Strict action will be taken against anyone spreading misinformation about shortages. Pune district has around 350 fuel stations, all of which have adequate stock, so there is no cause for concern,” he said.He added that the govt is also focusing on increasing the use of renewable energy. “I will be visiting Dharashiv district and Jat taluka in Sangli, along with industrialists, over the next two weeks to explore sites for large solar power projects,” he said.
