Tinsukia: Illegal storage and transportation of domestic LPG cylinders continue unchecked across Tinsukia district, with black-market operations thriving in Digboi, Pengaree, Bordumsa, and Philobari. The malpractice has sparked serious safety concerns and drawn criticism of lax enforcement by the Food and Civil Supplies Department and Assam Oil Division’s (AOD) vigilance and safety units.
Official records show only six authorised LPG distributors operate under the Margherita sub-division, with just one in Digboi. Yet, countless unauthorised vendors openly stock and sell LPG cylinders from residences, petty shops, and makeshift godowns.
Also Read:APCB Hosts Day-Long Event on Air Pollution
Cylinders from Petro Gas Agency, Digboi’s sole distributor, are frequently diverted using private or rental vehicles. These are sold at inflated rates, forcing consumers to pay between ₹50 and ₹200 extra per cylinder, and in Philobari, up to ₹1,000. A local vendor admitted to using a rented vehicle and selling from a stationery shop after her licence application was rejected.
Earlier this month, a rented four-wheeler loaded with LPG cylinders was found parked for hours near the Digboi Refinery wall, a highly sensitive zone, without basic safety measures—underscoring the risks.
Also Read: APL’s Bongaigaon Project Goes Operational, Begins Formalin Production
“Storing and transporting LPG cylinders without authorisation is unlawful and punishable,” said Dilip Talukdar, Divisional LPG Sales Head, Tinsukia, stressing that only licensed vendors and registered vehicles are permitted.
Residents have demanded immediate intervention, warning that unchecked black-market trade poses both economic exploitation and a grave safety threat in residential and high-risk areas.
