LPG sale in grey markets on the rise?
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 08 2016 :
Although LPG distributors of the State have streamlined distribution of subsidised LPG refills since the past few months, it is highly suspected that the sale of LPG refills in the black market is increasing.
Even as there is marked improvement in LPG distribution in the wake of the campaign launched by The Sangai Express, sale of LPG refills in the black market has increased in some -places, according to All Manipur Domestic LPG Consumers' Welfare Association.
President of AMDLCWA Angom Jayenta said sale of 14.2 kg LPG refills at grocery shops and pan dukan at Imphal and nearby localities and town is still rampant.
Sale of LPG refills in the black market was declining at one point of time.
The improvement in LPG distribution by distributors could be the reason for increase in sale of LPG refills at the black market.
LPG refills are seen being sold at shops in Lamlong Keithel, Konung Mamang, Singjamei area.
New Checkon area.
Mayai Lambi, Yairipok area.
Nambol area.
Wangjing area, Mayang Imphal and Kakching.
Officials of IOC, LPG distributors and officials of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution held a meeting recently.
During the meeting, Secretary of CAF&PD, Govt of Manipur had assured
to take up measures to stop sale of LPG in the black market.
However, no action towards this end has been taken up so far, Angom Jayentasaid.
He further said that Digital India Plan is yet to be implemented in Manipur.
Consequently, consumers could not avail online booking and new connection facility.
This has resulted in the loss of time and money.
The authority concerned has sit on the matter.
As such, who will take responsibility for this gap is a million dollar question.
Jayenta further said that there is no question of LPG distributors sending authorised mechanics to repair regulator, cylinder or gas stove when needed.
In such a situation, consumers have no other options than availing the service of unauthorised non-Manipuri mechanics who went door to door in various localities, he said.
Meanwhile, an official of the IOC said that clearing of all bookings without keeping any pending delivery will not be possible till this month due to inability of the IOC to ensure adequate LPG supply.