Subsidised Gas Cylinders Misused by Hotels, Residents Outraged
In Wanaparthy and other districts, subsidised gas cylinders meant for domestic use are being used illegally by hotels, restaurants, tiffin centres, curry points, and liquor outlets. Residents have raised concerns that household cylinders, which should be delivered within two days, are being delayed for up to a week. This has caused widespread frustration among the public.
Locals allege that these subsidised cylinders are being diverted to commercial establishments with the involvement of civil supply officials. This malpractice has led to a booming black market in towns like Wanaparthy and nearby municipalities.
According to reports, thousands of gas cylinders are sold in the black market daily. Gas agencies are accused of charging an additional Rs 80 to Rs 100 per cylinder, with the extra cost going up to Rs 100 in villages within 12 kilometers. Wanaparthy and the surrounding areas rely on two gas agencies that supply cylinders from three companies—HP, Indian Oil, and Bharat Gas. Collectively, the town’s hotels and eateries require over 1,000 cylinders each day.
The price difference between commercial and subsidised cylinders is significant. A 19kg commercial cylinder costs Rs 2,087, while a 15kg subsidised cylinder is priced at Rs 877. Hotel owners reportedly prefer buying two subsidised cylinders instead of one commercial cylinder. Taking advantage of this demand, gas agencies allegedly charge an additional Rs 300 to Rs 400 per subsidised cylinder, earning illegal profits amounting to lakhs of rupees daily. Additionally, agencies are said to be forcing customers to buy gas stoves and pipes at inflated prices.
There are also reports of corruption involving officials. Tiffin centre owners are allegedly being asked to pay monthly bribes ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 30,000, depending on the size of their establishments.
Angry residents are now demanding strict action against gas agencies involved in these illegal practices. They are also calling for legal measures against hotels and other businesses that misuse subsidised cylinders meant for domestic households.
