LPG crisis: Despite easing supply, panic bookings continue in Chandigarh

Chandigarh: Amid concerns over LPG availability in parts of the city, gas agencies on Monday said the situation is gradually stabilising and urged residents not to rush into panic bookings.

Officials at local LPG agencies said the standard booking cycle of 25 days remains in place and that there is currently no unusual pressure on supply. "Booking time is still 25 days. There was no rush today and the problem is slowly reducing," an official at a city gas agency said, adding that deliveries are continuing as per schedule.


However, concerns among residents persist, with many attempting to secure cylinders early amid fears of shortages.

Chairman of CRAWFED, Hitesh Puri, said a lack of trust among residents has contributed to the surge in bookings. He also pointed out issues with unreliable booking contacts circulating among the public.

"There is a trust deficit among residents. Some phone numbers being used for gas booking are not genuine. People are panic buying because they are unsure about the system," Puri said. He added that clearer communication from agencies and authorities could have helped avoid confusion.

Residents say the existing booking restrictions are adding to the anxiety. A resident of Maloya said he had last booked a cylinder on February 24 but was informed that he would only be able to place another booking on March 27, not in line with the 25-day rule.

Across the city, the general sentiment remains cautious. While many residents acknowledge that supply pressures appear to be easing, several say the booking and delivery process needs to be streamlined to restore confidence.

Authorities and agency officials have appealed to residents to follow the official booking channels and avoid relying on unverified contact numbers.

Mohali deploys vigil officers to keep an eye on LPG agencies, supply

Mohali: In view of growing concerns over the misuse and irregular distribution of domestic and commercial LPG cylinders, the district administration intensified monitoring of the supply system across the district.

Deputy commissioner Komal Mittal said food and civil supplies dept officials were deployed as vigil officers to keep a close watch on LPG agencies. These officers will conduct regular inspections and verification drives to ensure that the distribution of cylinders is carried out strictly according to prescribed norms.

The deputy commissioner said the officers will carry out checks based on prepared lists and will coordinate with LPG distributors to verify supply records and delivery patterns. The aim of the exercise is to maintain transparency in the distribution process and prevent diversion of cylinders meant for domestic use.

Mittal further directed all LPG distributors, delivery staff, and other concerned stakeholders to extend full cooperation to the inspection teams. She said the administration is committed to ensuring that the supply chain functions smoothly and that consumers do not face inconvenience due to irregularities in the system.

She also warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found involved in diversion, hoarding, or misuse of LPG cylinders. Such violations will invite legal action under the Essential Commodities Act.

The DC also appealed to residents of the district to remain vigilant and immediately inform the district administration if they notice any irregularities in the supply or distribution of LPG cylinders. She said public cooperation will play a key role in maintaining a fair and transparent distribution system.