Bhubaneswar: Amid the ongoing strike by drivers across Odisha, the state government has launched a series of measures to ensure the uninterrupted supply of fuel and other essential commodities. A high-level review meeting was held on July 9 under the chairmanship of Commerce & Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena to assess the situation and chalk out a coordinated response.

Senior officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Director General of Police, Principal Secretaries of Commerce & Transport and Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare, the Transport Commissioner, and representatives from Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), participated in the meeting. The main objective was to avoid any disruption in the supply chain caused by the strike.

The minister reiterated the state government’s readiness to engage in dialogue with the drivers’ association and urged them to withdraw the strike in the public interest. He stressed the importance of maintaining normalcy for the benefit of both citizens and the state economy.

A dedicated task force has been set up comprising officials from the Transport Department, police, district administrations, and OMCs. This team will work round-the-clock to monitor the situation, resolve logistical bottlenecks, and ensure smooth movement of petroleum products and critical goods. Police and local authorities have been directed to provide security escorts and facilitate the movement of fuel tankers and cargo vehicles wherever needed.

Refuting rumours of a fuel crisis, the minister assured that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel in the state. OMCs have confirmed that adequate fuel stocks are available at depots and retail outlets. Daily replenishment and delivery operations are continuing as usual at all major locations. On average, Odisha requires about 600 tankers a day — a target that is being successfully met.

The state government has appealed to the public not to panic or engage in hoarding. Citizens have also been requested to avoid spreading unverified information on social media.