Patna: Patna is witnessing a surge in violence linked to the distribution of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), with vendors increasingly coming under attack during deliveries, raising concerns about both worker safety and disruption to supply.
The latest incident took place on Thursday in West Lohanipur, where a delivery vendor was allegedly assaulted and had cylinders forcibly taken from him. It follows a similar episode a day earlier involving a vendor from Devyanti Gas Service on Boring Canal Road, suggesting a pattern of targeted attacks.
According to agency operators, groups described as anti-social elements are increasingly intercepting vendors during routine distribution. In the West Lohanipur case, a verbal altercation reportedly escalated quickly into physical violence, ending with the assailants seizing gas cylinders.
Despite repeated complaints to the district administration, agency representatives say little has been done to strengthen security. They argue that the lack of intervention is emboldening perpetrators and placing delivery workers at risk, while also undermining the wider distribution network.
The growing sense of insecurity among vendors could affect timely deliveries, potentially inconveniencing households and businesses dependent on LPG. Local residents have called for stricter enforcement and immediate action to prevent further incidents.
The tensions come amid broader changes to LPG distribution. Following central government directives, commercial users are now required to register with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to ensure uninterrupted access to gas cylinders. Authorities say the move has led to a sharp increase in registrations, particularly among restaurants, hotels and dhabas.
Officials argue that mandatory registration will improve transparency in the supply chain, help establish the identity of commercial consumers, and curb black marketing and misuse. Registered establishments are expected to receive a regular and legitimate supply of cylinders, while those failing to comply risk losing access and facing legal action.
The administration has urged all commercial users to complete the registration process by contacting their nearest gas agency or OMC and submitting the required documentation for a dedicated commercial connection.
While authorities maintain that the new system will streamline distribution and reduce irregularities, the recent spate of violence underscores the challenges facing LPG supply on the ground — where enforcement gaps and safety concerns continue to threaten both workers and consumers.
