Tinsukia district commissioner directs strict action against malpractice in LPG distribution, reviews supply

Dibrugarh: Tinsukia district commissioner Sumit Sattawan on Saturday convened a high-level meeting with oil distribution agencies, LPG distributorships, and departmental officials to review the current cooking gas supply situation in the district, directing all concerned parties to ensure uninterrupted and fair distribution of LPG for the benefit of ordinary consumers.The meeting, which brought together senior officials from Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and various distributors operating across the region, focused on tackling irregularities in the supply chain, while keeping public welfare at the centre of the administration’s priorities.Addressing the gathering, DC Sattawan made it unequivocally clear that the district administration is closely monitoring the LPG distribution landscape in line with state govt’s latest directives.

He issued a stern warning that any trader found indulging in dishonest practices — including artificial scarcity, hoarding or overcharging — would face strict action without hesitation.“The district administration will not tolerate any malpractice in the distribution of cooking gas. Strict action will be taken against dishonest traders who seek to exploit consumers,” DC Sattawan said.The DC also advised gas company officials to actively explore the possibility of extending piped gas supply to commercial LPG consumers in the district, a step that could significantly streamline delivery and reduce dependence on cylinder-based distribution over the long term.

A key concern raised during the meeting was the circulation of unfounded rumours about LPG shortages, which officials noted had been causing unnecessary panic and confusion among consumers. Participants were informed that the district currently maintains adequate stock and a regular supply pipelines, and that such rumours bear no factual basis.“Despite adequate stocks being available, rumours sometimes cause unnecessary anxiety among consumers.

We urge the public to rely only on verified information and not fall prey to misinformation,” an official present at the meeting said.Stress was also laid on ramping up public awareness campaigns to familiarise consumers with govt’s latest guidelines on LPG pricing, entitlements and proper channels of grievance redressal.The meeting was attended by additional DC Pankaj Nagbanshi, deputy director of food, public distribution and consumer affairs Birinchi Kumar Dutta, and senior IOCL officials Pratiksha Khanikar, Soshem Hungyo and Partha Pratim Das, along with LPG distributors from across the Tinsukia region.