LPG stocks in city remain above demand; agency under scanner for godown sale

Vadodara: LPG stocks in Vadodara district remained comfortably above the daily requirement on Monday even as the district administration initiated action against a gas agency for allegedly distributing cylinders directly from its godown in violation of prescribed rules.Data released by the district supply department showed that the overall LPG stock across the district stood at 18,518 cylinders on Monday against a daily requirement of about 14,096 cylinders, leaving a surplus of more than 4,400 cylinders.Officials said that although the stock level was slightly lower than Sunday's figure of over 20,700 cylinders, the available quantity continued to remain well above the district's routine consumption, ensuring adequate supply for consumers.Earlier data indicated that the district recorded an average daily sale of around 15,575 cylinders, leaving a surplus of more than 5,000 cylinders even after meeting regular demand.Company-wise figures released earlier showed Indian Oil Corporation holding the largest share with 9,960 cylinders against an average daily sale of 8,169 cylinders. Bharat Petroleum had 5,318 cylinders in stock against a daily sale of 3,628 cylinders, while Hindustan Petroleum had 5,462 cylinders available against a daily sale of 3,778 cylinders.The latest break-up released on Monday showed Indian Oil continuing to hold 9,960 cylinders, while Bharat Petroleum's stock stood at 3,964 cylinders and Hindustan Petroleum had 4,594 cylinders available in the district.Officials said the district administration was closely coordinating with oil marketing companies to ensure uninterrupted supply of cooking gas. At the same time, monitoring of LPG distribution has been intensified to prevent panic buying, curb unauthorised sale and maintain a smooth supply chain. Joint teams comprising officials from the district supply, revenue and police departments have been carrying out daily inspections at both private and public sector gas agencies. During one such inspection on Monday, officials received information that LPG cylinders were allegedly being sold directly from the godown of Gayatri Gas Agency in the Waghodia Road area. Acting on the tip-off, a team from the district supply department rushed to the spot and initiated an inquiry. Officials said that during the inspection, cylinders were found being given directly to consumers from the godown.