Widespread chaos and disappointment marked the city’s LPG distribution centres on Sunday as several gas agencies openly defied the directives of the District Collector. Despite a specific administrative order requiring agencies to remain operational on Sunday to facilitate both home delivery and counter sales, many consumers returned empty-handed to locked gates. Collector Kaushlendra Vikram Singh had issued an order on Saturday, mandating that all gas agencies remain open on Sunday to meet the rising demand and mitigate consumer distress. However, a ground survey revealed a different reality. In several areas, including DIG Bungalow locality, Indane gas agencies were found locked. Local residents expressed severe anger, labeling the closure as a blatant disregard for administrative authority. “When the administration had issued clear instructions, the agencies remaining closed is an act of defiance that forces ordinary citizens to suffer,” remarked a consumer who travelled a long distance only to find a locked agency. Ongoing crisis has been intensified by a persistent technical glitch in the server, which has remained unresolved for nearly six days.

 

This digital breakdown has prevented consumers from making online bookings, forcing them to congregate in large numbers outside agency offices. While a few consumers managed to secure cylinders in areas like TT Nagar, the overall atmosphere remained tense due to the breakdown of digital booking system. Enforcement and Warning Against Illegal Supply: District administration officials maintained a strict vigil throughout the day following complaints of black-marketing. Investigation teams led by Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDM) conducted inspections across various godowns and agencies. The administration has issued a stern warning: any gas agency found involved in illegal supply or black-marketing of domestic cylinders will face immediate cancellation of their operating license. Collector Kaushlendra Vikram Singh appealed to the citizens of Bhopal to remain calm. “There is no need to panic regarding gas supply, nor is there any necessity to hoard additional cylinders. Regular deliveries will continue as per schedule,” he stated.