Patna District Administration has launched a major crackdown on the black marketing and hoarding of LPG cylinders. Acting on the direct orders of Patna District Magistrate Dr. S.M. Tyagarajan, SDOs and SDPOs have started surprise inspections at various gas agencies across the city. The administration has made it clear that strict legal action, including the filing of FIRs, will be taken against any dealer or individual found disrupting the regular gas supply.
What are the new rules for LPG booking?
To stop the black marketing of gas cylinders, the government has implemented strict measures for consumers and agencies. There is now a mandatory 25-day gap required between two domestic LPG refill bookings, which was earlier set at 21 days. Providing a One-Time Password (OTP) at the time of delivery is strictly compulsory so that cylinders reach the actual registered consumer without fail. Furthermore, the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) has been invoked to maintain an uninterrupted supply chain and take strict action against those causing disruptions.
Current LPG cylinder prices in Patna
The recent changes in gas prices have been officially updated for consumers. Currently, the price of a standard 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder in Patna is set at Rs 1,002.50, reflecting a recent increase of Rs 60. On the other hand, the 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder now costs Rs 2,133.50. Officials have temporarily restricted commercial LPG bookings in certain sectors to ensure that domestic households and essential institutions like hospitals receive priority supply without any delay.
Why is the administration taking action?
There have been reports of panic booking among common consumers due to rumors of a gas shortage. Officials have clarified that distributors and gas companies have sufficient stock to meet genuine daily needs. The administration has urged people not to hoard cylinders out of fear. Bihar Food and Consumer Protection Minister Leshi Singh and Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary have assured the public of stable supplies, confirming a 10 percent increase in domestic production. Police patrols have also been intensified around gas godowns to manage long queues and prevent any kind of chaos.
