CHANDIGARH, Mar 28: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday urged the Centre to ensure enhanced and uninterrupted supply of petrol, diesel and DAP fertiliser as the state prepares for a bumper wheat harvest of 140 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), cautioning that any disruption could affect national food security.
Addressing a press conference, Mann said Punjab would require large quantities of fuel to operate tractors, harvesters, trolleys and trucks for harvesting and transportation of the crop. “Punjab is likely to produce 140 Lakh Metric Ton (LMT) of wheat this year. To ensure smooth harvesting and ferrying of the crop, regular supply of petrol and diesel is needed,” he said.
While stressing the urgency of timely intervention by the Centre, the Chief Minister clarified that there is no immediate shortage of fuel in the state and no need for panic buying. “There is no need for hoarding or panic buying… supply is going on unabated,” he said, adding that strict action would be taken against hoarders and black marketers.
Mann said Punjab currently has 12–14 days of petrol and diesel stock and around six days of LPG reserves, while at the national level, adequate reserves of 60 days for petrol and diesel and 30 days for LPG are available.
Highlighting enforcement measures, he said 1,497 checks have been conducted across the state, leading to the seizure of 301 LPG cylinders. Of the 71,000 LPG refill requests received, 69,000 have already been delivered. He also announced the launch of a helpline (01723321001) to address fuel-related issues and assured that there is no possibility of a lockdown, with normal activities continuing uninterrupted.
Emphasising Punjab’s contribution to national food security, Mann said the state is ready to supply 41 LMT of wheat from existing stocks, along with the expected 140 LMT production this year and 139 LMT of paddy. “It is the need of the hour to ensure that the food security of the country is maintained by all means,” he said.
The Chief Minister also urged the Centre to ensure timely availability of DAP fertiliser ahead of the paddy transplantation season beginning June 1 and called for reducing the waiting period for LPG refills in rural areas. He further stressed the need for proactive measures, including diplomatic efforts, to secure essential supplies and avoid disruptions.
