Bihar Grapples with Escalating LPG Cylinder Delivery Delays in April
Patna: The average backlog for LPG cylinder deliveries across Bihar has surged to over four days in April, according to official statements. Authorities have identified a significant spike in consumer bookings as the primary driver behind these mounting delays.
Panic Booking and Increased Demand Strain Supply Chain
Sources indicate that numerous consumers are engaging in panic booking, even when they already possess cylinders at home. This behavior has exacerbated the situation, with the convenience of digital booking platforms further amplifying the volume of refill requests.
Upendra Kumar, the special secretary in the food and consumer protection department and the state's nodal officer for LPG supply, emphasized that panic booking remains a critical factor. "Even educated individuals are participating in panic booking. There is a growing perception that having two to three filled cylinders at home signifies status. We have consistently assured the public that there is no shortage and that supply will continue unimpeded," he explained.
Statistical Overview Reveals Supply-Demand Imbalance
Data from April 1 highlights a stark disparity between demand and supply:
- Daily Demand: 4,42,348 cylinders
- Daily Supply: 3,65,432 cylinders
- Household Deliveries: 2,65,869 cylinders
- Average Backlog: 4.4 days
This represents an increase from the approximately four-day backlog recorded at the end of March. Currently, more than 16 lakh refill bookings are awaiting delivery statewide.
District-Wise Variations in Delivery Delays
The backlog is not uniform across Bihar, with certain districts experiencing more severe delays:
- West Champaran and Raxaul: Recorded the highest backlog at 6.2 days on April 1.
- Patna District: Reported a backlog of 4.5 days, with a demand of 43,878 cylinders, supply of 36,969 refills, and 28,030 cylinders delivered to households. Nearly 1.67 lakh cylinders remained pending for delivery as of April 1.
Festival-Related Staff Shortages Compound Issues
Officials noted that in some districts where backlogs exceeded six days, festival-related absences among delivery personnel and distribution staff contributed to the delays. "However, there was no shortage in the godown," an official clarified, underscoring that supply chain disruptions were logistical rather than material.
Kumar reassured residents that cylinders are being delivered within 25 days of booking in both urban and rural areas and urged the public to disregard rumors. "We advise people not to fall prey to unfounded speculation and to book refills only when necessary," he concluded.
