Uttam writes to Centre on Auto Gas Shortage

Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy has written to Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, urging immediate intervention to address the acute shortage of Auto LPG in the State, particularly impacting auto rickshaw operations in Hyderabad and other urban centres.

In his letter sent on Tuesday, the Minister highlighted that Telangana is strictly adhering to the Central government’s directives in managing LPG supplies amid the ongoing international energy challenges. While domestic LPG supplies are being maintained at full capacity to meet essential household needs, commercial LPG distribution is being regulated in line with Government of India guidelines.

However, the Auto LPG segment has been severely affected, with nearly one lakh LPG-run auto rickshaws operating across the State facing supply constraints. The Minister pointed out that the distribution network comprises both public sector undertakings and private operators, but the latter dominate the market with around 80 percent share. Due to prevailing supply limitations, there is a daily shortfall of approximately 55 metric tonnes of Auto LPG, leading to widespread dry-outs at private outlets.

The letter further noted that disruptions in supply from public sector companies such as IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL have exacerbated the crisis. Private companies, which rely significantly on these sources, are facing operational challenges. This has begun to affect public transport services, raising concerns about commuter inconvenience and potential public disorder.

Uttam Kumar Reddy also flagged price disparities, stating that while Auto LPG at public sector outlets is priced at Rs 75 per litre, private operators are selling it at Rs 93 per litre. He called for regulatory measures to prevent unjustified price hikes during the ongoing crisis.

To address the situation, the Minister requested the Centre to enhance Auto LPG availability at PSU outlets, direct public sector companies to support private distributors by bridging supply gaps, and ensure price regulation. He emphasized that prompt intervention would help restore normalcy, ensure uninterrupted public transport, and protect the livelihoods of thousands of auto drivers and their families.

The State government has sought urgent action from the Centre to mitigate the crisis and stabilize the Auto LPG supply chain at the earliest.