Daijiworld Media Network – Puttur (KM/SM)
 
Puttur, Sep 28: The gas consumers of Uppinangadi near here are all set to stage a protest, opposing the irregularities in adequate supply of gas cylinders.

Consumers were pushed beyond tolerance when they were forced to pay for the mistakes, for which they were not related at all.
 
Two gas agencies namely Mookambika and Mahalingeshwara enjoy the lion share of the wide distribution network of gas cylinders in Puttur taluk.

The gas agencies have been distributing the cylinders to its customers at rural and urban areas through sub-dealers to make their work easier and to improve the timely supply.

But the root of the problems lies here. As per the laws, the sub-dealers are not officially permitted. The officials from the revenue department have been conducting rides and confiscating the cylinders considering them unauthorized cylinders. Here the true sufferers are consumers.
 
The consumers were pushed beyond tolerance when they were uncertain of getting their cylinders back on the grounds as the sub-dealers, to whom the cylinders were handed to refill them, were unauthorized.
 
The distribution of gas cylinders are completely at mess. Mookambika gas agency has its own version to point out the root of problems. The agency has been compelled to adopt the policy ‘first come first served’. Now the agency is prioritizing the oldest order placed.
 
The agency also quotes the order issued by deputy commissioner that not to supply the cylinders to those who fail to furnish the ration cards at the time of refilling the cylinders.  Nearly 400 consumers will not get their cylinders back because of the failure to furnish the ration cards, considering ration cards as yardstick amidst the mess has also fanned the fire.
 
The government bodies give their side of stories. No gas agency has right to take any help of any sub-dealers in their distribution, unless the law permits; if this is violated they are bound to take actions.
 
The agitators also try to convey their inconvenience in spite of tolerating all the 'dealers- favorable- alternatives.' They pay the amount which is much more than what has to be paid to get the refilled cylinders, besides the additional burden of transportation charge to bring cylinders home.
 
The distribution of refilled cylinders at large is a chaos. Before it takes ugly turn, the concerned authorities have to take necessary actions.