Maharashtra activates 24/7 LPG control rooms to resolve technical glitches and supply fears

Mumbai: Facing a surge in digital booking failures and consumer anxiety sparked by the West Asia crisis, the Maharashtra government has launched a high-tech offensive to stabilise the state’s domestic fuel market. The state has activated a multi-tier network of 24/7 control rooms and a dedicated WhatsApp grievance system specifically to tackle technical issues with gas booking apps and missed-call services that have frustrated users in recent days.

Anil Diggikar, Additional Chief Secretary of the Food and Civil Supplies Department, issued a direct mandate to oil marketing companies on Thursday to immediately resolve all "backend technical hurdles" affecting mobile applications. The new control rooms—operating at the state, divisional, district, and taluka levels- will serve as a direct bridge between consumers and oil companies to ensure that no technical glitch prevents a genuine consumer from securing a refill.

High-level vigilance and district committees

Beyond fixing digital infrastructure, the state has fortified the physical supply chain by forming District-Level Coordination Committees. Under the leadership of District Collectors and including the Superintendent of Police, these panels are tasked with a daily audit of LPG distribution.

In the high-density Mumbai-Thane rationing area, a specialised committee led by the Controller of Rationing will monitor stock levels to prevent illegal diversion. To maintain absolute transparency and stop the spread of "fuel strike" rumours, the government has announced it will broadcast daily stock updates via radio, FM channels, and television. Officials warned that anyone found circulating misleading information on social media regarding gas shortages will face strict legal action.

Production hits 11,000 metric tonnes

Despite the international turmoil, the Ministry’s data suggests that Maharashtra is currently in a "surplus" position. While the state's average daily demand for LPG sits at approximately 9,000 metric tonnes, refineries have ramped up production to 11,000 metric tonnes per day over the last 48 hours.

The government has also outlined a "Priority Supply" protocol. In the event of any localised logistical bottlenecks, the following sectors will receive guaranteed first-preference deliveries:

• Hospitals and medical facilities
• Government school and college messes
• Mid-day meal schemes and Ashram schools
• Government hostels

Alternative energy and fuel reserves

As a secondary safety net, authorities have been directed to map out alternative fuel sources, such as coal or kerosene, provided they adhere to Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) standards.

The state’s broader energy security also remains robust. Refineries are currently operating at peak capacity, producing roughly 15,000 kilolitres of petrol and 38,000 kilolitres of diesel daily. With Piped Natural Gas (PNG) supplies also stable, the administration has urged citizens to avoid "panic booking" and trust the official distribution timelines.