Kolkata, March 13 Long queues were seen outside LPG distribution centers across West Bengal on Friday, amid concerns about a shortage of cooking gas cylinders due to the crisis in the Middle East.
People stood with empty LPG cylinders outside such centers in various parts of the state – from Kakdwip in the south to Siliguri in the north – claiming that they were unable to make online bookings.
The West Bengal government had on Thursday issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure coordinated monitoring of LPG supply and distribution, while announcing the setting up of a 24-hour control room at the state secretariat ‘Nabanna’ to address supply-related issues.
The initiative aims to stabilize LPG availability and ensure prompt resolution of public complaints, according to the SOP, amid concerns about potential supply disruptions.
The state government has also constituted a state-level LPG crisis monitoring committee to regularly review the supply situation and provide policy guidance to ensure availability.
Meanwhile, the Enforcement Branch of the Kolkata Police conducted surprise visits at distribution centers across the city, in response to complaints from consumers about the illegal diversion of cylinders.
An official from the Enforcement Branch said that the move is aimed at ensuring that distributors comply with regulations.
Complaints have been received from various parts of Kolkata, alleging that cylinders intended for household use are being diverted for industrial use.
The official said that police would take immediate action upon receiving credible information.
Many roadside eateries in the business districts of Kolkata and neighboring Salt Lake have reportedly closed due to a shortage of LPG cylinders, while those that remain open are operating with a limited menu and increased prices.
A section of autorickshaws running on LPG were also off the roads in the city and adjacent districts due to "irregular supply" at the filling stations. Some commuters claimed that autorickshaw drivers were charging 10-25% more than the usual fares.