Dehradun District Launches Quick Response Teams to Tackle LPG Black Marketing and Supply Issues
In a decisive move to address the rampant black marketing of LPG gas and guarantee complete home delivery for consumers, district magistrate Savin Bansal has directed the formation of area-wise Quick Response Teams (QRTs) across Dehradun district. This initiative, launched on Monday, aims to strengthen oversight and streamline the distribution of domestic and commercial gas cylinders.
Comprehensive Monitoring and Inspections Underway
The newly constituted QRTs have been tasked with inspecting gas agencies within their designated zones, closely monitoring all aspects of demand, supply, and distribution. District magistrate Savin Bansal is personally supervising efforts to reduce the backlog in gas supply, ensuring that consumer needs are met promptly.
On the first day of operations, these teams conducted rigorous inspections at 69 gas agencies and 25 commercial establishments throughout the district. A significant enforcement action occurred in the Vikasnagar area, where five domestic gas cylinders were seized from commercial establishments, highlighting the crackdown on illegal activities.
Structured Governance and Public Grievance Redressal
To support the QRTs, the SP (City) has been appointed as the nodal officer, responsible for coordinating any additional police force requirements. The teams operate under the chairmanship of sub-divisional magistrates, ensuring a hierarchical and efficient command structure.
From the control room, Additional DM (Finance and Revenue) K K Mishra is overseeing gas distribution and supply across Dehradun. His role includes resolving public grievances, with a total of 64 complaints regarding LPG gas supply registered by 5 pm on Monday. These complaints were logged through dedicated helpline numbers—1077, 0135-2626066, 2726066—and a WhatsApp number, 7534826066.
Officials from the district food supply department, stationed at the control room, are ensuring immediate action on issues related to supply, cylinder availability, and other problems. On Monday, approximately 14,899 domestic consumers and 63 commercial consumers received gas cylinders, demonstrating progress in distribution efforts.
Backlog and Future Supply Strategies
Despite these efforts, a significant backlog of around 80,000 domestic gas cylinders remains at the end of the day. Officials have confirmed that adequate stock is currently available and have issued instructions to gas companies to ramp up supply to meet the escalating demand. This proactive approach aims to balance inventory management with consumer needs, preventing further shortages.
The establishment of QRTs marks a critical step in enhancing transparency and accountability in LPG distribution. By combining rigorous inspections, public complaint mechanisms, and strategic supply increases, Dehradun district is working towards a more reliable and fair gas supply system for all residents.
