Government Invokes ESMA on LPG Cylinder Supply to Prevent Disruptions
In a decisive move aimed at ensuring an uninterrupted supply of cooking gas across the country, the government has invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) on the distribution and transportation of LPG cylinders.
The step comes amid concerns over potential disruptions in supply due to labour unrest and logistical bottlenecks in several regions.
Officials said the decision was taken to safeguard a service considered critical for millions of households, hotels, hospitals and small businesses that rely heavily on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for daily operations.
Under ESMA, strikes, work stoppages, or any form of disruption in essential services can be prohibited, and employees involved in such services can be legally compelled to continue working.
The move follows reports of protests and threats of a nationwide strike by sections of LPG transporters and delivery workers, who have been demanding revisions in freight rates, improved safety measures, and resolution of pending contractual issues.
Authorities feared that if the agitation intensified, it could severely affect the supply chain, especially in urban centres and densely populated states.
A senior government official said the imposition of ESMA was a preventive measure to ensure that LPG cylinders reach consumers without interruption.
“Cooking gas is a lifeline for millions of families. Any disruption can create panic among consumers and disturb daily life.
The government has therefore decided to invoke ESMA to maintain continuity of service,” the official said.
Under the provisions of ESMA, employees engaged in the LPG supply chain—including transporters, bottling plant staff and delivery personnel—are barred from going on strike for a specified period.
Violation of the Act can attract penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The Act also empowers authorities to arrest individuals without a warrant if they are found instigating or participating in activities that disrupt essential services.
Sources in the petroleum ministry said state governments and district administrations have been asked to closely monitor LPG supply networks and ensure smooth distribution.
Oil marketing companies have also been directed to maintain adequate stocks and coordinate with transport contractors to avoid delays in delivery.
Consumer groups have largely welcomed the decision, stating that cooking gas shortages often lead to black market and price manipulation at the local level.
However, labour unions have criticized the move, arguing that invoking ESMA undermines the rights of workers to protest and negotiate their demands.
Union representatives said the workers’ concerns over rising operational costs and safety risks should be addressed through dialogue rather than by imposing restrictions under emergency legislation.
They warned that unless their grievances are heard, tensions within the sector may continue.
Meanwhile, government officials said talks with representatives of LPG transporters and workers are still ongoing, and efforts are being made to find an amicable solution.
The administration has emphasized that while workers’ concerns are important, ensuring uninterrupted access to cooking fuel for the public remains a top priority.
With the imposition of ESMA, authorities hope to stabilize the supply chain and prevent panic buying among consumers, while simultaneously engaging with stakeholders to resolve the underlying issues affecting the sector.
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