Chandigarh, March 28: Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday approached the Union government to request an uninterrupted and enhanced supply of petroleum products and DAP fertilizer. The appeal comes as the state anticipates a massive 140 lakh metric tonne (LMT) wheat harvest, which serves as a critical component of the national food basket.
During a press conference in Chandigarh, the Chief Minister stated that he had already communicated the state’s specific logistical requirements to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that the expected bumper crop would require a massive mobilization of harvesters, tractors, and transport trucks, all of which depend on a consistent fuel supply.
“Enhanced fuel supply is the need of the hour to maintain the country’s foodgrain reserves,” Mann affirmed. He maintained that any disruption in the supply chain could have a direct impact on national food security.
The Chief Minister clarified that the state currently holds a 12-to-14-day stock of petrol and diesel, alongside a six-day supply of LPG. While he assured the public that these levels are consistent with annual averages, he asserted that timely intervention from the Centre is necessary to prevent any future shortages.
Beyond the immediate harvest, the Chief Minister raised the issue of the upcoming kharif season. He declared that a steady supply of DAP fertilizer must be secured before paddy transplantation commences on June 1. Additionally, he pushed for a reduction in the LPG refill waiting period for rural consumers, suggesting it be lowered from 45 days to 25 days to match urban delivery standards.
