Udupi MP Sounds Alarm Over CNG Distribution Crisis, DC Orders Swift Resolution
Udupi Member of Parliament Kota Shrinivasa Poojary has voiced serious concerns regarding the improper distribution of CNG gas across the district, highlighting a growing crisis that is severely affecting daily wage earners and commuters alike. The MP emphasized that autorickshaw drivers and other vehicle users are being compelled to stand in exhausting queues for several hours just to refill their gas tanks, a situation that is directly hampering their livelihoods and causing widespread inconvenience.
Authorities Urged to Ensure Efficient Gas Supply System
In a strong appeal to the concerned authorities, MP Poojary stressed the urgent need for a smooth and efficient distribution mechanism to alleviate the hardships faced by the public. Recalling discussions from a previous meeting, he pointed out that representatives from Adani Total Gas Limited had assured the commissioning of a mother station in the region soon. However, this critical project remains unimplemented, exacerbating the supply chain bottlenecks.
The parliamentarian insisted that the station must be made operational at the earliest to prevent further disruptions in CNG availability. Currently, 17 gas tanker vehicles are transporting CNG from Mangaluru to Udupi, and increasing this fleet could significantly help in streamlining the supply process. Poojary urged Adani Gas to prioritize this pressing issue and take immediate corrective measures.
Deputy Commissioner Directs Immediate Action on CNG Woes
Deputy Commissioner Swaroopa TK, who chaired a crucial review meeting on Friday to assess the CNG supply situation, issued clear directives to resolve the distribution problems without delay. She underscored the necessity of ensuring uninterrupted gas availability for all consumers, particularly those dependent on CNG for their daily transportation needs.
DC Swaroopa noted that vehicles, including CNG-operated autorickshaws, are facing extended waiting periods of two to three hours or more at filling stations, which is causing significant hardship to the general public. To address these delays, she instructed Gail Gas and Adani Total Gas companies to work in close coordination, enhancing their collaborative efforts to facilitate smoother distribution.
With the number of CNG vehicles in Udupi district increasing steadily, the Deputy Commissioner directed Adani Gas representatives to implement all necessary steps to meet the rising consumer demand and ensure an adequate supply of gas. She also mandated that while filling gas tankers at Mangaluru, priority should be given to tankers serving Udupi district, strictly adhering to the queue system.
Proposed Solutions and Stakeholder Complaints
In a bid to optimize the refilling process, DC Swaroopa suggested that if feasible, fixed time slots should be allotted to facilitate the timely refilling of tankers, thereby reducing waiting times and improving efficiency. During the meeting, vehicle drivers present raised complaints about the long waiting hours and the additional difficulties caused by low gas pressure during refilling, which further complicates their daily operations.
The meeting was attended by Kundapur MLA A Kiran Kumar Kodgi, senior officials from Gail Gas and Adani Total Gas companies, as well as numerous autorickshaw drivers, reflecting the broad stakeholder engagement in addressing this critical issue. The collective focus remains on implementing practical solutions to restore normalcy in CNG distribution and support the livelihoods of those affected.
