Bihar Districts Intensify Crackdown on Illegal LPG Activities and Promote PNG Expansion
In a coordinated effort to address growing concerns over cooking gas availability, the district administrations of West Champaran, Gaya, Bhojpur, and Buxar in Bihar have implemented stringent enforcement measures and alternative supply strategies. These actions come amid reports of panic booking, black marketing, and unauthorized storage by commercial establishments seeking to exploit the situation.
West Champaran Administration Seizes Commercial Cylinders
The district administration in Bettiah, West Champaran, took decisive action on Monday by confiscating 73 empty commercial gas cylinders from a hotel located near Station Chowk in Bettiah town. Officials have demanded valid documentation from the hotel operator to justify possession of such a substantial quantity of cylinders. Further legal proceedings will be initiated based on the verification of these documents, according to administrative sources.
Additional Collector-cum-District Supply Officer Anil Kumar Sinha emphasized that there is no shortage of LPG in West Champaran district, with an adequate stock of 23,186 cylinders currently available. "The administration has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against black marketing and illegal storage activities," Sinha stated. "We have streamlined the distribution system to ensure fair access to cooking gas for all residents."
Gaya District Accelerates PNG Connection Drive
In Gaya district, authorities are focusing on expanding piped natural gas (PNG) connections to both households and commercial establishments. District Magistrate Shashank Shubhankar reviewed the progress of the PNG project during a meeting held at the collectorate with concerned officials. This initiative aims to gradually reduce dependence on traditional LPG cylinders and provide a more stable and reliable energy supply.
The PNG project has gained particular significance in light of the current LPG supply challenges. During another review meeting with Indian Oil Corporation Limited officials, the DM noted that complaints have been received at the district control room and through social media platforms regarding customers receiving delivery messages with OTPs without actual gas delivery. "All hotels in Gaya and Bodh Gaya should be encouraged to apply for PNG connections," DM Shubhankar directed, highlighting the administration's commitment to transitioning toward more sustainable energy solutions.
Bhojpur and Buxar Districts Ensure Supply Stability
Bhojpur District Magistrate Tanai Sultania has instructed PNG suppliers and relevant officials to accelerate the expansion of piped natural gas connections throughout the district. At a comprehensive review meeting, the DM stressed the urgent need to widen PNG coverage to stabilize gas availability, especially during periods of peak demand. Currently, the district has approximately 10,000 active PNG consumers, with nearly 15,000 households having completed registration and payment processes while awaiting activation of their connections.
In Buxar district, DM Sahila confirmed on Monday that there is no shortage of cooking gas. "LPG supply is being maintained smoothly through 27 gas agencies linked to Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum," she assured. Between March 13 and 29, a total of 83,649 gas cylinders were distributed across the district, demonstrating the administration's effective management of supply chains.
Comprehensive Approach to Energy Security
The collective efforts of these four Bihar districts represent a multi-pronged strategy to address cooking fuel challenges:
- Strict enforcement against illegal storage and black marketing activities
- Transparent distribution systems to prevent exploitation and ensure equitable access
- Infrastructure development through accelerated PNG connection expansion
- Regular monitoring and review of supply chains and consumer complaints
- Public awareness initiatives to discourage panic booking and promote alternative energy sources
These measures come at a critical time when reliable access to cooking fuel remains essential for households and commercial establishments alike. The district administrations' proactive approach combines immediate enforcement actions with long-term infrastructure development, creating a more resilient energy ecosystem for Bihar's residents.
