Zirakpur: Rs 1,700 for a refill on ‘black market’

Outside an Indane gas agency in Zirakpur, long queues of consumers were seen on Wednesday as many complained of the unavailability of domestic LPG cylinders. They alleged that refills were not readily available and that Rs 1,700 was being charged. “Pay money first and the cylinder will be delivered two hours later," said a woman in the queue, adding that online and phone bookings were not working and consumers were being asked to redo eKYC. "This is harassment," she said.

Harried residents rushed to agencies as server glitches were reported. A new consumer said he received a stove, regulator and pipe, but no cylinder for the past two days. Many alleged that agency staff were “not cooperating at all.” Meanwhile, commercial cylinders remain scarce across the Tricity.

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However, the Mohali administration maintained that there is no shortage of domestic LPG, petrol or diesel in the district and that supply to all outlets is "regular and smooth." Deputy Commissioner Komal Mittal urged residents not to heed rumours or indulge in panic buying. She asked the public to report any suspected hoarding so that action can be taken. Officials added that commercial LPG supply has been restricted as per government orders, with limited exemptions for essential services.