Bhubaneswar, Apr 9: In a major step to ease access to cooking fuel, Odisha’s Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra has announced that 5 kg LPG cylinders will be made available at petrol pumps across the state.
Amid recent confusion regarding LPG availability, the Minister clarified that there is no shortage of LPG in Odisha, and the new initiative will particularly benefit students, migrant labourers, and daily wage earners.
Under the Centre’s Free Trade LPG (FTL) scheme, consumers can purchase and refill 5 kg cylinders at authorised fuel stations by producing a valid identity proof. The facility will also be extended through special distribution camps.
Key Features of the Initiative
Students and workers can easily obtain 5 kg LPG cylinders by showing a valid identity proof at authorised fuel stations, ensuring quick and hassle-free access.
The pricing has been fixed at ₹1,537 for a new 5 kg cylinder, while refilling will cost ₹593, making it an affordable option for smaller households and temporary users.
The cylinders will be distributed only through authorised outlets of Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, and will not be available in the open market.
To maximise reach and convenience, fuel stations located near colleges, industrial areas, and factories will be prioritised under this initiative.
There will be no restriction on daily refilling, allowing consumers to refill their cylinders as per their requirement without any limit.
Supply & Consumer Advisory:
Oil marketing companies have assured adequate LPG supply across the state. Home delivery is being completed within 5–6 days of booking, and customers can place a new booking after 25 days.
Consumers are advised to:
- Lodge complaints if LPG is not delivered within 7 days
- Prefer digital booking methods
- Avoid sharing OTPs to prevent fraud
Official Statements:
According to IOCL Chief General Manager Kamal Sheel, domestic LPG supply is being prioritised, with:
- 100% supply to medical centres, colleges, and anganwadis
- 70% allocation for commercial use
- 20% distribution for hotels and restaurants
The initiative has been welcomed by the Utkal Petroleum Dealers Association. General Secretary Sanjay Lath stated that petrol pumps will initially stock 10–15 cylinders, with supply increasing based on demand.-
