Haridwar Gas Agency Faces Official Notice Over Viral LPG Refilling Video
The district administration in Haridwar has taken decisive action against a local gas agency following the circulation of a concerning video on social media platforms. The footage, which has sparked widespread public outrage, allegedly shows LPG cylinders—both commercial and domestic varieties—being refilled directly from cylinders transported in a gas distribution vehicle.
Administration Demands Immediate Explanation
Authorities have formally issued a notice to Pushpak Gas Agency, requiring the establishment to submit a comprehensive reply within a strict two-day timeframe. This swift response comes amid mounting allegations of black marketing activities and the misuse of domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes.
Residents Expose Widespread Malpractice
Local residents have come forward with disturbing claims about the prevalence of these illegal practices. According to multiple accounts, the refilling of cylinders from distribution vehicles is not an isolated incident but rather a widespread phenomenon throughout the district.
Community members have further alleged that domestic LPG cylinders are being systematically diverted to hotels and roadside eateries through middlemen, suggesting possible collusion with gas agencies. The financial implications are significant, with reports indicating that domestic cylinders are being sold on the black market for Rs 2,000 to Rs 2,500 per unit—far above regulated prices.
Statistical Disparity Fuels Misuse
Official data reveals a striking imbalance in LPG distribution throughout Haridwar district. While there are approximately 5.67 lakh domestic LPG connections registered, the number of authorized commercial connections stands at just about 7,000. Residents argue that this substantial gap creates an environment that encourages commercial establishments to illegally utilize domestic cylinders to meet their operational needs.
Firsthand Accounts Highlight Systemic Issues
Sachin Gupta, a concerned resident who spoke to media outlets, described multiple problems with the current LPG distribution system. "Online booking services are not functioning properly, forcing many people to endure long queues to obtain cylinders," Gupta explained.
He specifically referenced the viral video that has brought this issue to public attention: "The footage clearly shows a delivery man allegedly refilling a cylinder from a domestic LPG cylinder. Hotels and restaurants are openly using domestic cylinders for commercial purposes. The administration must implement strict measures against this black marketing."
Administrative Response and Ongoing Measures
Haridwar District Magistrate Mayur Dixit has outlined the steps being taken to address these serious allegations. "We have established a dedicated control room specifically to receive complaints regarding LPG distribution," Dixit stated. "Multiple specialized teams have been formed to conduct surprise raids and investigations throughout the district."
The district magistrate emphasized that sufficient LPG cylinder stocks are available and assured the public that decisive action is being taken against black marketing and hoarding activities. However, he acknowledged the need for continued vigilance and enforcement.
Activists Question Enforcement Effectiveness
Despite these administrative assurances, social activists remain skeptical about the effectiveness of current enforcement measures. Activist JP Badoni pointed to the fundamental mismatch between commercial demand and authorized supply. "The number of commercial connections is completely inadequate compared to the actual number of commercial establishments operating in the area," Badoni asserted.
He further criticized what he perceives as insufficient action: "Domestic LPG cylinders are being routinely used by hotels and roadside eateries, yet we have seen no truly effective measures implemented to curb this practice. Stronger enforcement and systemic reforms are urgently needed."
The situation in Haridwar highlights broader challenges in LPG distribution systems and raises important questions about regulatory oversight, supply-demand imbalances, and the effectiveness of enforcement mechanisms in preventing resource diversion and black market activities.
