Panic-gripped consumers further hiked the demand of LPG cylinders, on Saturday, creating a sense of confusion and chaos at various places. Even as the oil marketing companies and gas agencies were highlighting that there is no crisis in the supply of LPG cylinders, consumers were indulging in panic buying amid concerns over possible disruptions. Adding to the woes, non-functional on-line LPG refill booking system is further frustrating the consumers. Long queues of consumers carrying LPG cylinders have been reported at most of the godowns across the city for the fifth day in a row. One of the dealers, on a condition of anonymity, told

 

The Hitavada that consumers’ rush for LPG cylinders amid growing fears of supply shortages has pushed up the demand at most three times. “There were long queues of consumers in front of our LPG gas godown. People were standing in queues from early morning. Chaotic scene was seen outside the godown by 10.30 am. More than 500 people were queued up for LPG cylinders,” he said, adding that his agency delivered 300 cylinders on the day. Meanwhile, some of the consumers said, they succeeded in on-line booking of LPG refills on Saturday.