Ranchi: Amid a deepening LPG crisis in the state, the Directorate of Food and Consumer Affairs has stepped in to streamline the supply of commercial and domestic cylinders. To address mounting public grievances, the department has launched a dedicated toll-free number, 1967, allowing residents to register complaints regarding supply disruptions.Director Dilip Tirkey on Tuesday announced that a temporary control room and call centre have been established, which will remain functional from 8 am to 8 pm. “The aim is to ensure that citizens do not face any kind of supply issue when it comes to LPG cylinders, petrol, or kerosene,” Tirkey said.Detailing the grievance redressal mechanism, he said that as soon as a complaint is registered, officials in the district concerned will be alerted to ensure a quick resolution based on the nature of the problem.In a parallel move to mitigate the impact of the kitchen fuel shortage, Ranchi deputy commissioner (DC) Manjunath Bhajantri has directed officials to ensure the steady availability of coal for the general public and local businesses. The decision comes following a high-level meeting chaired by the DC to discuss the scarcity of cylinders and the subsequent hardships faced by households, hotels, restaurants, and dhaba operators.“The district administration is committed to ensuring that the general public does not face any form of inconvenience. In the context of the LPG crisis, coal serves as a viable alternative fuel source; therefore, strengthening the supply chain and curbing black marketing are our top priorities,” Bhajantri said.The DC emphasised that coal must not only be available in sufficient quantities but also maintain high quality and remain affordable for the common man. The meeting, which saw participation from senior officials of Central Coalfields Limited (CCL), focused on enhancing production and distribution logistics.Discussions were also held on leveraging CCL’s CSR activities to benefit small traders and affected communities. To prevent exploitation during the crisis, the administration is setting up an effective monitoring mechanism to check unjustified price hikes and artificial scarcity.Bhajantri has urged CCL to bolster its transportation and distribution network within the Ranchi district to prevent any shortfall. Warning hoarders of strict consequences, the DC added, “It is our duty to provide citizens with access to alternative fuel sources. Concurrently, strict punitive action will be initiated against any individuals found engaging in black marketing.”
