LPG distributors creating scarcity of LPG cylinders: AJHLA

"Artificial scarcity of non-subsidised LPG cylinders has been created by the LPG distributors in connivance with authorities in Consumers Affairs and Public Distribution department," AJHLA president Inderjeet Khajuria told reporters here.

He said the unavailability of non-subsidised cylinders was a great cause of concern among catering houses.

"There is serious concern over unavailability of non- subsidised commercial LPG cylinders, to the catering houses in J&K," Khajuria said.

The Association has claimed that cylinders were being refilled in black, and charged Rs 500 to 800 extra per cylinder over the price fixed by oil companies, he said.

The 19-kg LPG cylinder which was earlier refilled at Rs 1,575 has lately been increased to Rs 1,735 by the companies but the same is being sold by the distributors in Jammu at rates between Rs 2,500 to 3,000, he claimed.

Before the implementation of the new policy and placing of cap on subsidised cylinders to the domestic consumers, the non subsidised commercial refilling of cylinders was available on the spot, without buyers waiting even for a day, he said.

"But presently the buyers are being asked to wait for days together after their booking for getting refilled cylinders," he claimed.

He said the unavailability of non-subsidised cylinders was a great cause of concern among catering houses.

Khajuria has sought intervention of higher authorities in the matter.