V Senthil Kumar
Port Blair, March 20: A strong demand has emerged from various parts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, particularly in rural areas, seeking a reduction in the LPG cylinder booking gap from the existing 45 days.
The current guideline, introduced by the Government of India, mandates a 45-day interval for LPG booking in rural regions. However, residents have expressed serious concern over the practicality of this system.
In today’s households, LPG has become an essential fuel for daily cooking and other domestic needs. According to local residents, a single cylinder typically lasts only about 30 to 35 days for an average family. As a result, the 45-day waiting period is creating significant inconvenience and hardship.
People from rural villages across the islands have stated that they are finding it difficult to manage their cooking needs due to the extended booking gap. The issue is affecting day-to-day life and causing distress among families.
Social organizations and public representatives have urged the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to intervene and recommend to the central authorities a reduction in the booking interval to 30 or 35 days.
Public opinion strongly favors revising the current policy to better match actual consumption patterns and ensure uninterrupted access to essential cooking fuel.
Residents have appealed for immediate reconsideration of the 45-day LPG booking rule in the interest of public convenience and welfare.
