Kolkata: Flip-flop and confusion around LPG distribution regulations triggered long queues and anxiety among consumers on Wednesday. After issuing instructions on Tuesday to widen the lock-in period between the first and second booking for double-cylinder consumers from 25 to 35 days, the ministry of petroleum and natural gas on Wednesday did a U-turn and clarified that the gap remains 25 days. Outside several LPG distributor offices, long queues formed as consumers rushed to complete their eKYC, fearing March 31 was the final deadline for all users. However, officials clarified the deadline applies only to beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), not regular domestic consumers.“The rush was largely driven by misinformation. Many people believed that eKYC would not be accepted after March 31,” said Bijon Bihari Biswas, spokesperson for LPG distributors. “We have been repeatedly telling consumers that for non-PMUY users, the process will continue until everyone is compliant,” he added.Addressing confusion about the booking gap, officials said consumers must wait a minimum of 25 days before booking a refill for a 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder. The clarification comes amid concerns over supply pressures linked to geopolitical tensions in West Asia.“There is no change in the refill cycle for any category, including double-cylinder connections. The govt is closely monitoring supply to ensure equitable distribution,” an OMC official said. For many, the lack of clear communication led to panic. “I stood in line for over an hour because I thought this was the last chance. Only after reaching the counter did I learn the deadline is not for everyone,” said Maheshtala homemaker Rina Das. Sandeep Ghosh from Barisha, said the refill rumours also caused confusion. “People said bookings would be restricted to once every 35 days. It created a sense of shortage.” Distributors agreed that misinformation has complicated routine operations. “We are handling service requests and also clarifying rumours all day,” a distributor said. The govt also notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026, which aims to accelerate adoption of PNG.
