Raipur: Gas consumers in rural areas across the state, including Raipur, have received significant relief. Now, consumers here will also be able to book gas cylinders every 25 days, just like those in urban areas. According to the department, there are lakhs of gas connections in the rural areas of Raipur district, with 2,000 to 3,000 cylinders booked daily from these regions alone. Previously, the booking interval for rural areas was set at 45 days, but this has now been reduced to 25 days. Oil companies had altered booking rules due to fears of a gas supply shortage amidst the US-Iran conflict; rural consumers could previously only place a second booking 45 days after receiving a cylinder. This caused difficulties for large families and households hosting weddings or ceremonies.
Government Implements Rule with Immediate Effect
The Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas stated on Monday that the government has directed petroleum marketing companies to set the booking interval for domestic LPG cylinders at 25 days for both rural and urban areas, effective immediately. This decision follows an improvement in the situation.
Average Daily Booking of 5,000–6,000 Cylinders
According to the Food Department, an average of 5,000–6,000 gas cylinders are booked daily in Raipur city, while approximately 4,000 cylinders are delivered to homes daily through various agencies. With the reduction in the booking interval, this figure is expected to rise further. Agency operators anticipate a rapid increase in booking numbers from rural areas.
Ban on New Connections Remains
Although the booking timeline has been reduced, the ban on issuing new connections remains in place. Consequently, thousands of people in Raipur district are still waiting for new connections; this group largely consists of people who have moved from outside the area and live in rented accommodation. Due to the ban, people are forced to purchase cylinders at higher prices. Agencies are also advising them to opt for 10-kg cylinders instead.
