Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding pressing issues affecting the state as well as Tamils currently residing in West Asia, in light of escalating tensions in the region. In a communication posted on X, Stalin emphasized the necessity for the central government to ensure an uninterrupted supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for various sectors including domestic, commercial, and industrial users within Tamil Nadu. He expressed that the state must prepare for potential disruptions arising from the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Safety Measures for Tamils Abroad

In addition to concerns about energy supplies, Stalin highlighted the urgent need for ensuring the safety of Tamils stranded in the affected areas. He requested the government to facilitate transit visas, coordinate evacuation operations, and schedule additional flights to assist in the safe return of these individuals. This plea comes in the wake of heightened fears for the well-being of Tamil citizens caught up in the chaos of the region.

Gas Allocation for Power Plants

The Chief Minister has also addressed Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri concerning the allocation of natural gas for power generation. He urged the central authorities to reassess the guidelines outlined in the Natural Gas (Supply Regulation) Order of 2026 to ensure that power plants have sufficient gas to meet the increasing demands during the upcoming summer months in Tamil Nadu. In his communication, Stalin indicated that Members of Parliament from the state would personally deliver these letters to the relevant Union Ministers, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Energy Concerns Amid Global Developments

This appeal arises amidst rising anxiety regarding energy supplies following significant military actions on February 28, which resulted in the death of Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. These military strikes, conducted by the United States and Israel, also resulted in the fatalities of prominent leaders within the Islamic Republic, further complicating the geopolitical landscape in West Asia.

LPG Supply Stability Assured by Authorities

Meanwhile, RK Gupta, National Vice President of the LPG Association, has commented on the current supply situation, stating that there is no shortage of domestic LPG. He clarified that while commercial LPG cylinders have been delayed since the previous day, exceptions have been made for hospitals and educational institutions. Gupta emphasized that the domestic supply remains stable.

Government Measures to Regulate Energy Supply

In response to the situation, the central government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act of 1955 to manage the distribution and availability of petroleum products and natural gas including LNG. This regulatory framework is intended to ensure that critical sectors receive priority in supply. The order specifies that the allocation of natural gas will adhere to operational availability, maintaining full supply for specific sectors based on average consumption over the past six months. Priority sectors include domestic piped natural gas supply, compressed natural gas for transportation, LPG production, and various operational necessities for pipeline infrastructure.

Increased LPG Production and Review Committees

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has prioritized the supply of domestic LPG and has instructed oil refineries to ramp up LPG production. In addition, a committee consisting of three Executive Directors from Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) has been established to evaluate requests from commercial users such as restaurants and hotels, ensuring a balanced supply amid rising demands. With India’s reliance on liquefied natural gas imports, a significant portion of this supply originates from West Asian countries.

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