Patna Administration Intensifies Crackdown on LPG Irregularities
In response to mounting consumer complaints regarding alleged irregularities in the supply of domestic LPG cylinders, the Patna district administration has escalated its enforcement efforts. On Thursday, authorities registered a First Information Report (FIR), sealed an errant gas agency, and issued stern warnings against black marketing, hoarding, and delivery lapses. Despite these actions, officials have firmly maintained that there is no shortage of domestic LPG in the district, assuring residents of stable supplies.
FIR Registered Over Delivery Failure
In the Patna Sadar subdivision, an FIR was lodged at the Patliputra police station following a complaint from a domestic LPG consumer. The complainant, a resident of Digha, alleged that despite booking a cylinder with M/s Utsav Gas Seva in Indrapuri and receiving a delivery confirmation message, the cylinder was never delivered. The FIR targets the agency's delivery boy, Mukesh, under relevant legal sections, with further investigative actions currently underway.
Strict Warnings from District Magistrate
District Magistrate Thiyagrajan SM emphasized the administration's vigilance in safeguarding consumer interests. "No negligence, laxity, or irregularity will be tolerated," he stated. Clear directives have been issued to immediately register FIRs and arrest agency owners or individuals involved in black marketing, hoarding, or overcharging upon receipt of complaints. The DM reiterated that any attempts to disrupt fair distribution would invite strict punitive measures.
Surprise Inspection Leads to Sealing of Agency
In a separate enforcement action, the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of Patna Sadar conducted a surprise inspection at Sulabh Indane gas distributor in Phulwarisharif. The operator was found absent from the office and reportedly fled upon learning of the inspection. Following the DM's directives, the SDO sealed the distributor's office and registered an FIR at the Phulwarisharif police station against the operator. A show-cause notice was also issued, demanding a written explanation within a stipulated timeframe.
Helpline and Monitoring Mechanisms Established
To address domestic LPG supply issues proactively, a dedicated district-level helpline has been activated. Consumers can report complaints or seek assistance related to availability, delivery delays, or irregularities by calling 0612-2219810 between 9 am and 6 pm daily. The administration has committed to prompt action on all grievances. Additionally, at the block level, 28 flying squads have been constituted to curb hoarding and address LPG-related complaints efficiently.
Structural Oversight and Regular Reviews
Gas dealerships have been assigned enforcement officers and magistrates, with LPG agency areas divided into sectors, zones, and super zones. Block Development Officers serve as sector magistrates, Senior Deputy Collectors as zonal magistrates, and Additional District Magistrates as super zonal magistrates. Regular review meetings are being held with gas company officials, area officers, the Additional District Magistrate (Supply), special officers of subdivisions, and all SDOs to ensure coordinated efforts.
Assurances of Adequate Supply and Functional Systems
The DM clarified that there is no shortage of LPG in Patna district, noting that all distributors and gas companies maintain adequate stock. The booking and delivery system remains fully functional through missed calls, SMS/IVRS, WhatsApp, and OTP-based methods. A mandatory 25-day interval between consecutive bookings has been implemented to regulate demand and prevent panic buying. All SDOs have been directed to conduct regular inspections and surprise raids at LPG dealerships and distribution points, with strict orders to curb black marketing and hoarding.
Call for Calm and Enhanced Monitoring
Urging residents not to panic, the DM affirmed that supplies are stable and being closely monitored to prevent any disruption in domestic LPG availability. To ensure uninterrupted enforcement, the DM has cancelled the leave of all block supply officers and assistant district supply officers in Patna until further orders. The district control room maintains constant coordination to facilitate swift action based on consumer feedback, reinforcing the administration's commitment to consumer protection and fair distribution practices.
