Bhubaneswar: Minister of State for Food Supply and Camp Welfare, Krushna Chandra Patra, convened a crucial meeting today with representatives of petrol, diesel, and LPG distributors, along with state organizations, to address key issues in the sector and safeguard consumer interests.
The meeting, held at the Odisha State Food Supply Corporation office in Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar, brought together departmental officers, representatives from state-owned oil companies, office bearers of the Utkal Petroleum Dealers Association, and members of the distributors’ association.
During the discussion, Minister Patra highlighted the importance of ensuring the right quantity and quality of fuel and timely gas deliveries, stressing that LPG must be delivered to customers within 48 hours of booking. He also called for regular inspections to prevent black marketing and adulteration in the supply chain. The minister reiterated that strict action would be taken against the commercial misuse of domestic gas.
Other key topics included the introduction of OTP-based services to combat black marketing, the use of CSR funding to support social causes, and the provision of health insurance for employees in the sector. The minister particularly emphasized supporting disabled youth and women through these initiatives.
A focus was also placed on enhancing the consumer experience at fuel stations, with directives to ensure drinking water and toilet facilities are available for customers. Patra urged filling station owners to improve customer service and maintain proper facilities at all locations.
Senior officials, including Food Department Additional Secretary Santosh Nayak, Deputy Director Deepak Satpathy, and Utkal Petroleum Dealers Association General Secretary Sanjay Lath, attended the meeting, which also explored ways to resolve grievances and improve collaboration between distribution agencies and the public.