Karnataka writes to Centre to allow utilisation of oxygen produced in state

He expressed confidence about getting the permission soon.

Speaking to the media after a high-level meeting held here on Wednesday on oxygen supply in the state, he said Karnataka has increased its oxygen production. Production has already increased in Jindal and other companies in the state.

He said the central government has provided oxygen supplies from other states but the supply of oxygen from distant states to the state is long overdue.

“I have consulted with Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Prahlad Joshi to reduce the amount of oxygen being shipped from state to other states and allow its use within the state. Union Minister Piyush Goyle had responded positively,” Shettar said.

He said to overcome the shortage of oxygen the district authorities have been instructed to ensure that the supply of oxygen is sufficient for the respective districts.

“There are currently 170 oxygen transport tankers in the state. Of these, 68 are being supplied to other states. The state needs more tankers. The Transport Department officials have been instructed to speed up converting more tankers”, he added.

The Minister said the use of railway tankers is essential to expedite oxygen transport and reduce costs of transport from distant Orissa and other states. Four containers will be available in the state soon, he said.

Shettar said that 40 metric tonnes of oxygen from Bahrain is being brought in by the Indian Navy and an additional 40 metric tonnes is coming from other states.

He said that the government has spoken to the chief of Jindal Oxygen Chief and have instructed them to reduce steel production and increase oxygen production. “They have already begun to work on getting more oxygen for the state," he added.