Delhi Residents Endure LPG Cylinder Chaos Amid Supply Shortages
Chaos erupted across several parts of Delhi, particularly in Old Delhi and adjoining areas, on Friday as residents faced a severe scramble for LPG cylinders. With tensions escalating, police had to be deployed outside multiple gas agencies to manage the situation. The crisis has left many households struggling to secure essential cooking fuel, leading to long queues and frayed tempers.
Long Queues and Failed Online Systems
At the Delhi Gate LPG agency office, TOI witnessed extensive lines and frustrated individuals waiting for domestic-use cylinders. Many reported that online booking servers were down, and calls to agencies went unanswered, exacerbating the desperation. Radha Rani, a 60-year-old from Ajmeri Gate, stood in line with her grandson, recounting her ordeal of returning empty-handed for three consecutive days. "My three sons work, and my daughter-in-law had a baby 15 days ago. I have been coming here every day, but the supply runs out before my number is called," she said, highlighting the personal toll of the shortage.
Police Intervention and Agency Closures
During peak hours between 10:30 AM and noon, police personnel, including three male officers and a woman constable, were present to control the crowds. However, distributors allegedly pulled down shutters soon after, leaving many stranded. Jugal Kishore, a 56-year-old government servant, had to leave work after his son informed him that KYC verification was suddenly required. "They have never asked for this before," he expressed, adding to the confusion and inconvenience.
Allegations of Black Market Sales
Residents outside a godown, about 1 km away, held up receipts and accused suppliers of selling cylinders in the black market to restaurant owners while locking gates to the public. Naved, a 37-year-old, shared his frustration after five days of trying to get a receipt. "A tea seller in Chawri Bazar told me he got a cylinder in black for Rs 3,000. We are trying for our homes but haven't succeeded," he said, pointing to illicit practices worsening the crisis.
Emotional Distress and Family Struggles
Pasreena Khatoon, a 50-year-old from Delhi Gate, broke down while describing her eight-day struggle to obtain a cylinder. "I have been sent from one place to another. My son and husband are no more, so I bring my daughter with me every day," she lamented. Others, like Feroz from Daryaganj, voiced fears for their families. "I have four hungry children at home, and local dhabas are refusing to send food. What should I tell my wife and kids?" he asked, reflecting the deepening anxiety.
Regional Variations in Distribution
While Old Delhi faced severe disruptions, distribution in some areas appeared relatively stable. In south Delhi's Lajpat Nagar IV and Greater Kailash II, operations were largely normal with fewer crowds, though locals noted higher footfall than usual. At Gole Market in central Delhi, minor crowding was observed with people standing in queues. However, for many in Old Delhi, the only option remains returning to the queues tomorrow, as reports of hoarding and rising induction stove prices add to the distress.
