U’khand forms SOP for 20% distribution of commercial LPG cylinders

Dehradun: Uttarakhand govt has formulated a standard operating procedure (SOP) for the distribution of commercial LPG cylinders after tourism stakeholders expressed concern that supply disruptions could affect business during the ongoing winter yatra and the upcoming Char Dham Yatra starting in April.Officials said the move follows directives from the Union ministry of petroleum and natural gas to ensure that up to 20% of the state's daily LPG requirement is made available for essential commercial use, in addition to supplies meant for hospitals and educational institutions.During a meeting chaired by chief secretary Anand Bardhan with the state-level committee and district magistrates, officials were asked to identify priority sectors for the distribution of commercial cylinders.Based on assessed requirements, the state has estimated a daily demand of 2,650 commercial LPG cylinders. Of these, about 1,000 cylinders will be supplied to restaurants and dhabas, 750 to hotels and resorts, and 190 to pharmaceutical units producing life-saving drugs. Other allocations include 150 cylinders each for govt-controlled guest houses, industrial canteens, and student hostels with paying guest facilities, 130 for dairies and food processing units, and 130 for homestays and self-help group establishments.Officials said the cylinders will be distributed by the state's three oil marketing companies—IOCL, BPCL and HPCL—in proportion to their existing market share. State heads of these companies will ensure supply as per the allocation and inform the concerned district magistrates.District-wise distribution will be based on the number of gas connections. Dehradun has been allotted the highest share at 31%, followed by Haridwar and Nainital with 13% each, and Udham Singh Nagar with 9%.The SOP will remain in force until further orders.