LPGShortage – Gas Cylinder Supply Crisis Triggers Long Queues Across Uttar Pradesh
LPGShortage – Residents across several districts of Uttar Pradesh continued to struggle to obtain cooking gas on Friday as the shortage of LPG cylinders entered its fourth consecutive day. Outside many gas distribution centres, long queues of consumers stretched along the streets from early morning hours. Numerous residents complained that even after booking cylinders in advance, they were unable to receive their supply due to the ongoing shortage.
Government Orders Action Against Black Marketing
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to take strict action against any form of black marketing involving cooking gas or petroleum products. According to government officials, district administrations have been asked to closely monitor supply chains and ensure that cylinders reach legitimate customers rather than illegal traders.
Authorities have also been instructed to maintain vigilance at distribution points where complaints of hoarding and illegal resale have emerged. The state government stated that enforcement teams are working to identify individuals attempting to exploit the shortage for profit.
Households and Businesses Feel the Impact
The shortage has begun affecting everyday life across multiple cities in the state. With cooking gas becoming difficult to obtain, many households have started looking for alternative cooking solutions. Retailers reported a noticeable increase in demand for induction cooktops and electric stoves over the past few days.
Restaurants, roadside eateries, and hotels are also experiencing difficulties in maintaining regular operations. Several food businesses have indicated that the rising cost of cooking fuel is forcing them to adjust menu prices. In many urban areas, customers have already started noticing higher prices for common meals.
Police Deployed at Gas Agencies
To prevent disorder and stop illegal resale activities, local authorities in several districts arranged for cylinders to be distributed under police supervision. Officers were stationed outside many gas agencies to regulate queues and ensure orderly distribution.
Despite these precautions, maintaining order proved challenging in some places where frustrated customers had been waiting for hours. Officials said that crowd management has become difficult as people worry that supplies might run out before their turn arrives.
Altercations Reported in Barabanki
Tensions escalated in Barabanki city when a dispute broke out among customers waiting outside a gas agency. According to witnesses, a vehicle carrying LPG cylinders arrived at the distribution point, prompting the crowd to move forward quickly.
During the rush, a man reportedly attempted to join the queue midway instead of waiting at the end. Other customers objected, leading to an argument that quickly turned into a scuffle. Local authorities intervened to calm the situation and restore order.
Chaos at Distribution Centre in Ghaziabad
A similar situation was reported in Ghaziabad where large numbers of residents had gathered outside an agency. As soon as a truck loaded with cylinders reached the location, people rushed toward the distribution point in an attempt to secure their supply.
The sudden crowd movement created confusion and disorder. Police personnel present at the scene eventually managed to control the crowd and resume distribution in a more organized manner.
Reports of Cylinders Sold at Higher Prices
While official agencies struggle to meet demand, reports from several cities suggest that LPG cylinders are being sold illegally at inflated prices. Consumers in some areas claimed they were forced to pay nearly double the regular price to obtain a cylinder from unauthorized sellers.
Authorities have warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found involved in such activities. Investigations are ongoing to identify individuals responsible for illegal resale operations.
Customer Collapses After Long Wait
In one incident reported during the shortage, a man identified as Mittal reportedly collapsed after waiting in line for nearly two hours. Witnesses said he had been sitting on a gas cylinder due to exhaustion before suddenly losing consciousness. Bystanders rushed to assist him before arranging medical attention.
Political Debate Over Fuel Supply
The shortage also sparked political discussion outside Uttar Pradesh. In Jharkhand, the issue of rising fuel prices and the supply crisis of LPG cylinders was raised during the 13th day of the state assembly’s Budget Session. Members of the ruling coalition and opposition exchanged sharp remarks while debating the increasing cost of petrol, diesel, and domestic cooking gas.