Patna, Wednesday, 29 April (ABN): The District Magistrate of Patna held a meeting with the Senior Superintendent of Police, Municipal Commissioner, Deputy Development Commissioner, all Superintendents of Police, Sub-Divisional Officers, Sub-Divisional Police Officers, Additional District Magistrate (SSP Elok), Special Development Officers (SSP Elok), and other officials to review the supply and distribution of LPG gas. The meeting discussed the current situation regarding the availability, booking, and delivery of LPG gas. The authorities were directed to prioritize consumer convenience, ensure smooth and transparent supply of LPG gas, and strengthen the home delivery mechanism. Furthermore, they were instructed that upon receiving complaints related to "black marketing, hoarding, overpricing, or illegal use, an FIR should be registered immediately, and those involved in such activities will be arrested." Additionally, gas agency representatives were directed to perform their duties "responsibly and accountably."

The District Magistrate instructed that complaints received at the control room be resolved in an organized and expedited manner and that any rumors spreading at the public level be immediately debunked. He issued directions to provide PNG facilities in "mission mode," ensure strict enforcement of orders related to gas supply to commercial establishments, guarantee uninterrupted availability of essential items and services, and protect the interests of migrant workers. Moreover, officials were directed to maintain continuous contact and dialogue with all stakeholders, including consumers, oil marketing companies, gas agencies, and elected public representatives, to solicit suggestions and opinions, thereby ensuring proper compliance with all government orders.

The District Magistrate confirmed that the entire administrative machinery is alert, prepared, and committed to ensuring the smooth supply and distribution of domestic LPG gas. To ensure that consumers do not face any difficulties, district administration officials are conducting regular inspections, and legal action is being initiated against individuals found involved in LPG gas black marketing or other illegal activities. Additional District Magistrates, other district-level officers, Sub-Divisional Officers/other Sub-Divisional Officers, and block-level officials are regularly inspecting and raiding LPG gas dealers and distributors. Opinions are also being solicited from consumers, respected public representatives, and the general public. Directions have been issued to register FIRs and make arrests upon receiving any complaints related to black marketing, hoarding, or overpricing.

The District Magistrate stated that based on reports submitted by the authorities, it is clear that consumers are booking gas based on genuine needs - i.e., no unnecessary bookings are being made. There is no situation of fear and panic among the public. Consumers are opting to book gas according to their actual requirements. This is a positive development. Authorities are maintaining continuous contact and dialogue with all stakeholders, including consumers, gas agencies, and respected public representatives, and are actively soliciting their opinions and suggestions.

The District Magistrate confirmed that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the transparent and smooth supply of domestic LPG gas in the interest of consumers. If any instance of negligence, laxity, or irregularity comes to the fore at any level, action is being initiated against the culpable parties under the ESMA Act (Essential Services Maintenance Act). Action will also be taken under the Disaster Management Act against those who create obstacles in the supply.

The District Magistrate further stated that there is no shortage of LPG gas stock. Officials have also been directed to ensure that administrative protocols remain robust and effective. The District Magistrate emphasized that the district administration maintains a "zero tolerance policy" against black marketing, illegal hoarding, overpricing, and other illegal activities. At the block level, 28 squads are continuously active to address complaints related to domestic LPG cylinders and prevent hoarding of cylinders. These squads consist of Block Supply Officers, Block Supply Inspectors, and Assistant District Supply Officers, who have been designated as Nodal Officers. Acting on information received from consumers and the control room, these Nodal Officers are taking immediate action to resolve complaints.

The District Magistrate said that to prevent the misuse of domestic LPG, Sector, Zonal, and Super Zonal Magistrates are conducting regular and in-depth inspections and raids on hotels, dhabas, and other commercial establishments. Officials have been directed to take strict action according to law in case of any complaint related to the illegal use of domestic LPG cylinders in commercial establishments.