Chaotic Scenes at LPG Agency in Basti as Consumers Rush Amid Price Hike Rumors
Long queues and chaotic scenes were witnessed outside an LPG agency in Uttar Pradesh's Basti district on Thursday as consumers rushed to collect cooking gas cylinders amid rumors of a possible price hike, according to officials. The incident highlights heightened public anxiety over fuel supplies in the region.
Early Morning Rush Leads to Near-Stampede Conditions
A large number of people gathered at the Mahagauri Gas Agency near Mahadeva crossing in the Bankati block early in the morning. Locals reported that several consumers began lining up from around 4 am, well before the agency's opening time. When the agency gate opened at approximately 7 am, people rushed inside to collect cylinders, creating a frenzied atmosphere.
Many consumers were seen carrying the cylinders on their heads and shoulders, leading to near-stampede-like conditions as they jostled to secure their supplies. Officials described the scene as chaotic, with concerns about safety and order during the rush.
Official Clarification: No Shortage of LPG Cylinders
District Supply Officer Vimal Kumar Shukla, however, clarified that there is no shortage of LPG cylinders in the district. He explained that oil companies have recently increased the share of OTP-based LPG booking to 80 percent from the earlier 30 percent. This change has temporarily moved several connections out of the regular category, causing some confusion among consumers.
Basti has approximately 2.07 lakh Ujjwala beneficiaries and nearly three lakh regular LPG consumers, according to Shukla. He added that these connections are now being reactivated through KYC verification processes, and staff have been deployed at gas agencies to facilitate the transition and assist consumers.
Heightened Vigilance Amid Regional Tensions
The rush comes amid heightened vigilance by the Uttar Pradesh government over rumors of fuel shortages and possible black marketing of petrol, diesel, and LPG. Authorities across the state have been directed to monitor fuel sales closely following panic buying triggered by concerns linked to tensions in West Asia.
Consumers, particularly families preparing for weddings and other events, rushed to secure cylinders after rumors spread about a possible rise in LPG prices. The authorities have reiterated that there is no shortage of supply and have urged people not to believe in unverified rumors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining calm and order in the distribution system.
