IOCL Takes Strict Action Against LPG Distributors in Assam
Guwahati: In a significant move to enhance oversight of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) distribution, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has suspended five distributors across Assam with immediate effect. This decisive action follows intensified monitoring of LPG supply chains throughout the state, aimed at ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.
Distributors Facing Suspension
The five distributors suspended by IOCL are:
- BM Gas Service in Tezpur (Sonitpur district)
- Biswanath Gas Distributor in Biswanath district
- Gadadhar Gas Service in Dhubri district
- KA Indane Gramin Vitrak in Barpeta district
- Prakash Indane Agency in Hojai district
An IOCL official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the suspensions resulted from operational irregularities at the agency level. The official highlighted specific concerns, stating that while digitally booked orders—where customers receive a delivery authentication code (DAC)—are typically genuine, many distributors were found processing deliveries manually. This practice raised serious questions about the authenticity of transactions.
Key Violations Identified
The suspensions were based on multiple violations, including:
- Failure to Follow First-In, First-Out System: Customers who booked earlier were often not receiving their cylinders on time, disrupting the fair distribution process.
- Manual Processing Issues: Distributors bypassed digital systems, leading to potential authenticity concerns and compliance gaps.
- Poor Compliance Rates: Low digital booking and e-KYC rates indicated inadequate adherence to modern operational standards.
- Customer Complaints: Mounting grievances over delays and deficient service highlighted persistent inefficiencies.
- Delivery Backlogs: In Tezpur, for instance, over 1,400 deliveries were pending beyond five days, signaling significant operational lapses.
Government and Corporate Coordination
In a social media post, Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota emphasized that this action aligns with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas's action plan. He noted that intensified monitoring of LPG supplies is underway at both state and district levels in coordination with Oil Marketing Companies, particularly against the backdrop of the prevailing situation in West Asia.
Kota reassured the public that the overall LPG supply position remains stable, with adequate availability. He disclosed that Assam has secured an additional 10% allocation for commercial LPG, bringing the total to 70%, while domestic consumers continue to receive their full allocation. The government has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy towards irregularities in the distribution of essential commodities, ensuring close monitoring to safeguard public interest and maintain seamless supply.
This proactive measure by IOCL underscores a commitment to operational transparency and efficiency in LPG distribution, aiming to protect consumer rights and ensure reliable service across Assam.
