ADMINISTRATION LODGED TWO FIRs FOR BLACK MARKETINGOF LPG

ADMINISTRATION LODGED TWO FIRs FOR BLACK MARKETINGOF LPG

23-APRIL-ENG 2

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

BUXAR---------------------------The administration has become fully proactive in ensuring the smooth functioning of the cooking gas supply system within the district. The District Supply Officer stated that a total of 27 gas agencies—comprising Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum—are currently operational in Buxar. Specifically, these include 13 agencies belonging to Indian Oil, 6 to Bharat Petroleum, and 8 to Hindustan Petroleum.

The number of domestic gas consumers in the district exceeds 350,000. In terms of company-wise distribution, the consumer base includes 202,360 customers of Indian Oil, 57,517 of Bharat Petroleum, and 90,668 of Hindustan Petroleum. Between March 13 and April 21, a total of 184,147 gas cylinders were distributed, while 2,917 cylinders remain in stock with the agencies.

The district witnesses an average daily demand of 6,419 cylinders, against which 5,507 cylinders are currently being supplied. At present, 25,212 refill bookings are pending, resulting in a backlog equivalent to four and a half days of supply. The administration has clarified that urban consumers will be permitted to book a new cylinder only 25 days after their last delivery, while rural consumers may do so after 45 days. To curb hoarding and black marketing, Magistrates and police officials have been deployed at all gas agencies. Senior officials are continuously conducting inspections of these agencies and commercial establishments. So far, two First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered on charges of black marketing. On April 21, surprise inspections were conducted at 11 gas agencies and other establishments. A District Control Room has been established to ensure the prompt resolution of complaints from the general public. A dedicated helpline number—06183-223333—has been issued to address issues related to gas supply. To date, 1,180 complaints have been received, 1,118 of which have been resolved expeditiously. The administration has issued a warning that strict action will be taken against anyone found spreading rumors regarding gas, petroleum products, or essential commodities. Social media platforms are being continuously monitored. Separate arrangements have been made to provide commercial gas for events such as weddings and *Shraddh* ceremonies. In the Buxar subdivision, 185 applications have been received, while 220 applications have been received in the Dumraon subdivision; action on these applications is currently underway.