Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu
In a bid to address the ongoing LPG supply issues, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to prepare a comprehensive action plan to shift from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to alternative energy sources such as natural gas (PNG) and electrical appliances across Andhra Pradesh.
Reviewing the situation at the camp office on Monday, the chief minister stressed the need to expand PNG connectivity across the state.
Officials informed him that while the infrastructure is in place to support 2.34 lakh connections, currently only about 60,000 consumers are using the service.
Setting an ambitious target, Mr Naidu directed the authorities to ensure full utilization of existing capacity and enable at least 10,000 new PNG connections in each district.
He also directed the officials to take immediate steps to restore the Srikakulam-Kakinada gas pipeline and engage with the Union Government for necessary support.
The Chief Minister further called for speeding up approvals related to the AP City Gas Distribution (CGD) network and asked the officials to present the Natural Gas Promotion Policy for the Commercial Sector in the upcoming cabinet meeting.
Describing the current gas shortage as an opportunity, Mr Naidu encouraged the promotion of electric cooking alternatives such as induction cookers and electric cookers. He emphasized that LPG supply must be prioritized for critical sectors including hospitals, educational institutions, anganwadis, Anna canteens and hotels.
Officials said about 1.8 lakh LPG cylinders are supplied daily with an available stock of 14,444 metric tonnes.
On agriculture, the chief minister directed officials to submit a detailed report by March 26 on the crop damage caused by the recent unseasonal rains.
Emphasizing the role of technology, Mr. Naidu said the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) at Tirumala has significantly reduced the waiting time and allowed nearly 20% more devotees to access darshan. He urged the department to embrace technologies such as AI, Internet of Things (IoT) and drones to improve management and service delivery.
Meanwhile, Information and Public Relations Minister Kolusu Parthasarathi has assured the public that there is no need to worry about the shortage of LPG.
The minister reiterated the push for PNG and electric alternatives, noting that pipeline approvals are being accelerated to encourage wider adoption.
Mr. Parthasarathi said AI-based early warning systems have helped farmers minimize crop losses during the recent rains by enabling timely harvesting and conservation measures. Preliminary estimates indicate that more than 13,000 farmers and 1,800 horticulture growers have been affected.
He added that the assessment of crop damage would be completed by March 26, while the details would be displayed at Rythu Seva Kendras between March 27 and 29. Final district reports are expected by March 31.
The minister also highlighted the steps taken to ensure fair prices for maize farmers who are facing falling market rates.
Published – 23 March 2026 19:46 IST
