Port Blair, Oct 9: For thousands of households scattered across the remote corners of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an empty LPG cylinder often means days of waiting — and kitchens gone cold. Now, there’s a glimmer of hope.
In a significant move aimed at addressing this long-standing concern, K. Sailendra, Executive Director (LPG), Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Kolkata Division, assured of taking up this issue with the company for considering a third LPG cylinder for consumers in remote island areas where timely delivery of refills remains a persistent challenge.
Speaking at a meeting attended by Indane distributors from South, North, and Middle Andaman along with senior citizens and consumers, Sailendra acknowledged the difficulties faced by island residents due to logistical delays and irregular ferry services. “We understand the hardships of our consumers in remote areas where refills cannot always reach on time. The matter for permitting three LPG cylinders for such households will be taken up with our Head Office,” he said.
He also revealed that despite suffering a loss of over ₹150 crore in LPG distribution in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands alone, the IOC continues to prioritise public service over profit, ensuring that cooking gas reaches even the most inaccessible corners — from Leh to Lakshadweep, and now to the Islands.
Responding to concerns about distributors compelling new LPG applicants to buy stoves and accessories only from them, Sailendra clarified that consumers are under no compulsion to do so. “They are free to purchase equipment from any source, provided it is ISI or BIS certified,” he said, adding that technicians will verify the safety standards during installation.
The IOC official, who is on a two-day visit to the Islands along with K.M. Thakur, Chief General Manager, West Bengal, interacted with local residents and women beneficiaries, emphasizing safe LPG usage and consumer rights.
Senior citizens present at the meet lauded Indane’s efforts to bring clean energy to every kitchen, recalling the days when smoke-filled chulhas were the norm. “An extra cylinder for remote areas would be a true blessing,” one said.
For now, islanders await what could soon become their third lifeline in the kitchen — a promise of steady cooking and smoother living amid rough seas and rougher connectivity.
