North India Statesman
News India Live, Digital Desk: The acute shortage of LPG gas cylinders in many districts of Bihar has spoiled both the kitchen budget and peace of the common people. On one hand, consumers are waiting in line for hours for gas, while on the other hand, the government issued official helpline Have also raised their hands. Non-functioning of the helpline number in times of trouble is further provoking the anger of the consumers.
Helpline fails: Consumers say – ‘Nobody picks up the phone’
The helpline numbers issued by the Bihar government and the Food Supply Department to address complaints of gas refilling and black marketing are proving to be white elephants during the current crisis. There are reports from cities like Patna, Muzaffarpur and Gaya that the helpline number is either ‘not reachable’ or no one is receiving the call.
Cylinder shortage at agencies, black marketing in full swing
Gas distributors say that there is a glitch in the supply chain, due to which delivery is not being made even after 10-15 days of booking. Taking advantage of this crisis, some anti-social elements are black marketing gas cylinders. Complaints are being received from consumers about charging Rs 200 to Rs 300 more than the fixed price for domestic gas cylinders, but no strict action is visible on the ground from the administration.
Increased burden on hotels and dhabas
The shortage of cylinders has had a direct impact on domestic consumers as well as small hotels and dhabas. At many places, stoves have become cold due to non-availability of gas. People say that on one hand gas connections were given through Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, but now they have to face hurdles for refilling.
What is the department doing?
Officials of the Food and Consumer Protection Department say that due to technical reasons, there may be some problems in the helpline, which will be rectified soon. However, due to the interruption in supply, no clear time frame has been given yet as to when the situation will become normal. The department has claimed that they are in touch with the gas companies and the supply will be restored soon.
