Punjab Horticulture and Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat on Monday issued strict directions to the district administration and oil marketing companies to clamp down on black marketing and profiteering of LPG cylinders, ensuring a transparent and hassle-free supply system for consumers.
Accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Varjeet Walia, Senior AAP leaders Nitin Kohli, Dinesh Dhall, and Rajwinder Kaur Thiara, the Minister categorically stated that any malpractice in the sale and distribution of LPG cylinders would not be tolerated. He ordered intensified inspections at gas agencies to prevent misuse of domestic cylinders and warned that strict legal action would be taken against violators.
Highlighting the need for efficient supply management, the Minister directed representatives of oil companies, including Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), to rationalize the load among agencies. He stressed that agencies facing excess demand should transfer supply burden to those with lesser backlog to ensure timely delivery and prevent inconvenience to consumers.
Deputy Commissioner Varjeet Walia emphasized strict adherence to the First-In-First-Out (FIFO) principle to guarantee fair and merit-based distribution. He also announced that random audits of gas agencies would be conducted to maintain transparency and accountability in operations.
He mentioned that as per information if Food and Civil Supplies Department, the district has 92 LPG agencies, including 49 of IOCL, 28 of BPCL, and 15 of HPCL, catering to over 7.22 lakh consumers. He added that four dedicated teams are already conducting regular inspections, including verification of stock registers, to ensure smooth distribution.
The administration reiterated its commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring uninterrupted LPG supply across the district. ADC Amaninder Kaur, DFSC Narinder Singh along with other officials were present on the occasion.