Patna District Magistrate Thiyagarajan SM conducted a comprehensive review of the supply and distribution of LPG gas with senior officials on April 27. Photo: Aftab Alam Siddiqui
By A CorrespondentÂ
Patna: Patna District Magistrate Thiyagarajan SM conducted a comprehensive review of the supply and distribution of LPG gas with senior officials, including the Senior Superintendent of Police, Municipal Commissioner, Deputy Development Commissioner, Superintendents of Police, Sub-Divisional Officers, Sub-Divisional Police Officers, Additional District Magistrate (Supply), officials of gas companies, Block Development Officers, Circle Officers, Station House Officers and others.
The review assessed the current status of LPG availability, booking and delivery. Officials were directed to ensure consumer convenience at all levels, maintain transparent and uninterrupted supply, strengthen home delivery systems, and take immediate action against complaints of black marketing, hoarding, overpricing and illegal usage. Instructions were issued to register FIRs and arrest those involved in such activities without delay. Gas agency representatives were also asked to function in a responsible manner.
The District Magistrate further directed that complaints received at control rooms be resolved promptly and systematically, and that rumours circulating in the public domain be immediately refuted. Officials were instructed to ensure PNG supply in mission mode, implement orders regarding gas supply to commercial establishments, guarantee uninterrupted availability of essential goods and services, and safeguard the interests of migrant workers. Continuous engagement with consumers, oil marketing companies, gas agencies, public representatives and other stakeholders was also emphasised to obtain feedback and ensure proper compliance with government directives.
District Magistrate Thiyagarajan SM stated that the entire administrative machinery remains vigilant and committed to ensuring smooth supply and distribution of domestic LPG. Regular inspections are being carried out to prevent inconvenience to consumers, and strict legal action is being taken against those involved in black marketing and other illegal practices. Surprise inspections and raids are being conducted at LPG dealerships and distribution points at district, sub-divisional and block levels.
He noted that reports indicate consumers are booking LPG refills based on actual need, with no signs of panic buying. Authorities are maintaining continuous dialogue with all stakeholders and gathering feedback to improve services.
The District Magistrate emphasised that any instance of negligence, irregularity or malpractice would invite action under the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA). Additionally, those disrupting supply may face action under the Disaster Management Act.
He clarified that there is no shortage of LPG stock in the district and that supply remains normal and uninterrupted. Patna has a total of 136 gas agencies and 1,665,360 LPG consumers. Adequate stock is available with all distributors and gas companies. So far, 1,944,913 bookings have been recorded. On average, 25,000 to 30,000 bookings are made daily, while 30,000 to 35,000 cylinders are delivered each day, with minor fluctuations.
Consumers have not faced any difficulty in booking or receiving cylinders. The administration has urged people to avoid panic booking, refrain from crowding gas agencies, and instead book refills from home. Domestic LPG cylinders are being delivered directly to households by oil marketing companies.
The administration has advised the public not to rely on misleading or unverified information and to trust only official communication. For assistance, consumers can contact the 24×7 District LPG Gas Helpline at 0612-2219810, where prompt and proper support will be provided, the District Magistrate added.
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