Odisha Orders Biometric Scans to End LPG Black Marketing
The Odisha government has announced sweeping measures to curb LPG black‑marketing and accelerate the transition to Piped Natural Gas (PNG).
At a high‑level review meeting chaired by Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra and Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, officials and oil company representatives finalised a roadmap for transparent and efficient fuel distribution.
Under the new system, every LPG delivery will require biometric authentication through fingerprint and iris scans, eliminating ghost deliveries and ensuring accountability.
Once households receive PNG connections, their LPG cylinder connections will be immediately discontinued.
District Collectors have been directed to expedite pipeline expansion across the state, with special priority given to Puri ahead of the Rath Yatra festival.
Government and commercial establishments are being urged to adopt PNG, with fast‑track clearances promised.
To strengthen supply chain integrity, oil companies must maintain a five‑day buffer stock and share real‑time inventory data daily.
Strict compliance with Delivery Authentication Codes (DAC) will be enforced to prevent false delivery notifications.
Priority sectors such as schools, Anganwadis, Ahaar Kendras, and hospitals will receive uninterrupted gas supply.
The overall goal is to enhance transparency, efficiency, and reliability while supporting Odisha’s cleaner energy transition.
