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Gujarat Enforces 25-Day Gap for LPG Bookings to Curb Panic Buying

The Gujarat government has announced a mandatory 25-day gap between bookings for domestic LPG cylinders by the same consumer to prevent panic buying and hoarding. This precautionary measure comes amid geopolitical tensions in West Asia that are raising concerns over global energy supply chains. Officials state that adequate LPG stock is available and distribution is being continuously monitored, with the state's situation being relatively stable due to significant piped natural gas (PNG) coverage. The government has also warned that illegal storage, black marketing, or overcharging for LPG are punishable offences under existing laws.

Key Points: Gujarat LPG 25-Day Booking Gap Amid West Asia Tensions

  • 25-day gap between LPG bookings
  • Precaution against panic buying & hoarding
  • Adequate stock assured in Gujarat
  • PNG supply stabilizes state's situation
  • Black marketing warnings issued
2 min read

Gujarat says LPG supply adequate, 25-day gap between bookings

Gujarat govt introduces 25-day gap between LPG cylinder bookings to prevent hoarding. Officials assure adequate stock and warn against black marketing.

Gujarat says LPG supply adequate, 25-day gap between bookings
"Public sector oil marketing companies have decided to maintain a gap of 25 days... so that LPG for domestic requirements is adequately available - Food and Civil Supplies Department"

Gandhinagar, March 12

Public sector oil marketing companies have introduced a 25-day gap between bookings of two domestic LPG cylinders by the same consumer in Gujarat as a precautionary measure to prevent panic buying and hoarding amid tensions in West Asia, the state government said on Thursday.

Officials said the Central and state governments are continuously monitoring the situation to ensure uninterrupted distribution of LPG cylinders across Gujarat as global developments in West Asia raise concerns over energy supply chains.

According to officials, adequate stock of LPG for domestic consumption is currently available in the state and steps are being taken to ensure efficient transportation and distribution of existing supplies.

"In view of the geopolitical tensions in West Asia, the Central government and the state government are undertaking continuous monitoring and efforts to ensure uninterrupted distribution of LPG cylinders across the state," the Food and Civil Supplies Department said in a release.

The restriction on booking intervals has been introduced as a precaution to ensure equitable availability of cylinders.

"Public sector oil marketing companies have decided to maintain a gap of 25 days between the booking of two LPG cylinders by the same consumer so that LPG for domestic requirements is adequately available at all places," the department said.

It added that the decision was aimed at preventing unnecessary panic among consumers and discouraging the stockpiling of LPG cylinders.

Officials also noted that Gujarat's situation remains comparatively stable as around 30 per cent of domestic gas consumption in the state is supplied through the piped natural gas (PNG) network.

"Since sufficient PNG supply is available, the overall situation in Gujarat is comparatively better," the department said.

Meanwhile, the Central government has regulated the sale of commercial LPG cylinders under the current circumstances. However, essential institutions will continue to receive supplies.

"Hospitals and educational institutions will continue to receive LPG allocation as per their requirements," the release stated.

Authorities also warned against illegal practices related to LPG supply.

The department said unauthorised storage of LPG, black marketing, diversion for non-permitted uses, or charging prices above the notified rate constitute offences under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, and the LPG Control Order, 2000.

"Such activities are punishable offences and competent authorities of the state government are empowered to initiate criminal action against those involved," the department said.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good step, but implementation is key. Will the booking apps and local distributors actually enforce this 25-day rule properly? Last time there was a shortage, some agents were charging extra for 'priority' bookings. Hope the authorities keep a strict watch.
R
Rohit P
For a large joint family like ours, one cylinder sometimes doesn't last 25 days, especially with all the cooking. The government should have a provision for families above a certain size to book based on actual consumption, not just a fixed calendar gap.
A
Aman W
Glad to hear about the PNG network stability. This shows the importance of investing in infrastructure like piped gas. More cities need this. Reduces dependency on cylinders and these panic situations. Long-term thinking is needed.
M
Michael C
The warning against black marketing is crucial. These middlemen exploit every crisis. Hope they follow through with strict action. The common man just wants to cook their meals in peace without being overcharged.
N
Neha E
While I understand the precaution, calling the supply 'adequate' and then imposing restrictions sends mixed signals. Clear, transparent communication about actual stock levels would prevent more panic than a booking gap. Just my two paise.

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