LPG distributors threaten nationwide strike over unmet demands
The LPG Distributors Association has warned of an indefinite nationwide strike if its demands, including a raise in commission, are not met within the next three months. This strike would significantly affect the delivery of domestic gas cylinders across the country. The association, which represents LPG distributors from various states, has highlighted the inadequacy of the current commission rates and the operational challenges they face in their work.
Demands for Higher Commission and Better Distribution Practices
The association’s president, BS Sharma, announced during the national convention in Bhopal that members from multiple states had unanimously agreed on a charter of demands, which has been submitted to the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry. According to Sharma, the commission currently provided to LPG distributors is insufficient and does not align with the growing operational costs. In their letter to the Union government, the association has requested that the commission be increased to a minimum of Rs 150 per cylinder, a rate they argue is essential for the survival of their business and the fair distribution of gas.
In addition to the issue of low commissions, distributors have raised concerns about the forced distribution of non-domestic cylinders. They allege that oil companies are sending cylinders without any demand, a practice they claim is illegal and should be halted immediately. Furthermore, distributors have pointed out the problems in distributing cylinders under the Ujjwala Yojana, a scheme aimed at providing LPG connections to underprivileged families. These issues have added to the growing frustrations within the distribution community.
Recent Price Hike Adds Fuel to the Fire
The tension surrounding the strike threat is further exacerbated by a recent increase in the price of domestic gas cylinders. On April 7, the central government raised the price of a domestic LPG cylinder by Rs 50. This price hike has significantly affected consumers across major cities. For instance, in Delhi, the price of a gas cylinder has risen from Rs 803 to Rs 853, while in Mumbai, the price has increased from Rs 802.50 to Rs 853.50. Similarly, the price in Kolkata has gone up from Rs 829 to Rs 879, and in Chennai, it has surged from Rs 818.50 to Rs 868.50. The increase in the price of cylinders distributed under the Ujjwala Yojana has also been implemented, intensifying the dissatisfaction among both distributors and consumers.
As the deadline for meeting the distributors’ demands draws closer, it remains to be seen whether the government will take action to resolve the issues and avert the strike. The situation has raised concerns over the future of LPG distribution in the country and the impact of these ongoing challenges on consumers.
