DC Encourages PNG Connections; Directs ‘First Booked, First Delivered’ System
Patiala News (March 20): Deputy Commissioner Patiala, Varjeet Walia, today convened a meeting to review the supply of domestic and commercial LPG in the district.
Chairing the meeting with District Food & Civil Supplies Controller Dr. Ravinder Kaur, other officials and representatives of gas companies, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized that the government’s foremost priority is to ensure uninterrupted supply to domestic consumers. DC made it clear that any leakage, black marketing, or hoarding will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The Deputy Commissioner also stressed that institutions and bulk consumers should be encouraged to opt for Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections, wherever feasible, to reduce dependence on LPG cylinders and ensure more efficient energy usage.
Varjeet Walia appealed to consumers to refrain from panic booking of LPG cylinders, as it puts unnecessary pressure on the supply system. He assured residents that, in line with the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the district administration is committed to ensuring smooth and adequate supply of domestic LPG, as well as to essential medical and educational institutions. However, he noted that supply to commercial establishments may remain curtailed as per requirement.
The DC directed that gas agencies must ensure regular supply of domestic LPG cylinders strictly on the principle of “first booked, first delivered.” He also instructed that records of gas agencies be regularly checked to ensure transparency and accountability.
Further, gas agencies were directed to display and maintain daily data of supply and delivery. The Deputy Commissioner added that demand for commercial LPG cylinders should be placed before the committee constituted for the purpose.
He categorically directed that LPG supply to hospitals must not be disrupted under any circumstances.
The DC further directed the Food and Civil Supplies Department to conduct inspections of commercial establishments found using domestic LPG cylinders illegally. He also instructed that e-KYC of all LPG consumers be completed on priority.
Additionally, he directed that regular inspections of gas agencies be carried out to ensure proper distribution and to curb any instances of black marketing and hoarding.
Meanwhile, the Department of Food and Civil Supplies carried out inspections at commercial establishments to check the misuse of domestic LPG cylinders. During the drive, teams confiscated domestic cylinders being used in violation of norms.
