Una, March 27:- In light of the recent unexpected surge in demand for domestic and commercial gas cylinders, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Una, Jatin Lal, convened a meeting with relevant departments, oil companies, and gas agencies to review the situation. During the meeting, he issued necessary directives to ensure the smooth functioning of the gas supply system.
The Deputy Commissioner stated that the availability of LPG in the district remains normal, and gas consignments are being received regularly, just as in the past. He appealed to the public not to pay heed to any rumors and to refrain from creating unnecessary pressure regarding gas bookings.

**Instructions Issued to Gas Agencies to Maintain Proper Stock and Supply Systems**
The Deputy Commissioner has directed all gas agencies in the district to maintain adequate stocks of their respective cylinder categories (14.2 kg, 20 kg, and 19 kg). Furthermore, instructions were issued to ensure a smooth flow of funds for gas consignments and to arrange for proper transportation; to submit demand indents to oil companies periodically; and to supply gas cylinders to consumers based on their bookings without any discrimination.
He also issued directives to strictly avoid any form of overcharging, hoarding, or profiteering; to supply cylinders regularly in accordance with the prescribed route charts; and to prioritize hospitals, educational institutions, and medical facilities when supplying commercial gas cylinders. Additionally, the agencies have been instructed to regularly update their online stock records and registers.

**Avoid Rumors; Book Gas from the Comfort of Your Home**
The Deputy Commissioner appealed to the residents of the district, assuring them that gas availability in the district is sufficient; therefore, they should refrain from spreading rumors or crowding unnecessarily at gas agencies. Gas cylinders can be booked from the comfort of one's home via the agency's landline, mobile number, or official mobile application.
He further informed that approximately 13,500 households in the district have been connected to the piped gas network, and gas supply is currently running smoothly in about 6,600 of these households. Despite pipelines having been laid up to the homes of other consumers, connections have not yet been activated in many locations.
He urged the public to obtain pipeline gas connections in accordance with government guidelines to ensure a hassle-free gas supply.

**Hotels, Dhabas, and Commercial Establishments Advised to Adopt PNG**
Jatin Lal stated that, in accordance with government directives, priority is being given to hospitals and educational institutions regarding gas supply. Furthermore, commercial gas cylinders are being made available on demand to operators of hotels, restaurants, and dhabas who are registered with the relevant agencies.
He informed that pipeline gas is currently available to 63 establishments within the district, and they are operating their businesses without any issues. In areas where pipelines have already been laid, operators of hotels, dhabas, and restaurants have been appealed to obtain commercial gas connections under the PNG scheme to ensure an uninterrupted gas supply.
The Deputy Commissioner stated that for information regarding domestic or commercial PNG connections, one may contact the Bharat Petroleum Company office in Rakkad Colony, Una, or call their helpline number: 94177-50485. Additionally, information can also be obtained by contacting the Food and Civil Supplies Department, Una, at their telephone number: 01975-226016.

**Directives Issued for Regular Monitoring of Overcharging and Hoarding**
The District Magistrate of Una has directed the Food Supply Department, the Police Department, and oil companies to ensure regular inspections within their respective jurisdictions. Immediate action is to be taken in accordance with departmental regulations should any instances of overcharging, hoarding, or profiteering be detected.