Garhwal Post Bureau
Mussoorie, 17 Mar: The shortage of both domestic and commercial gas cylinders in Mussoorie has now assumed a critical dimension. The situation has become such that small shopkeepers, tea stalls, and restaurant operators are facing a crisis that threatens their very livelihoods. Due to the unavailability of commercial gas cylinders, several establishments are teetering on the brink of closure.
Traders state that the government is failing to make commercial gas available. Furthermore, if they are compelled to use domestic cylinders out of necessity, punitive action is being taken against them. Consequently, they are left questioning how they are expected to run their businesses. They point out that while, on the one hand, the Central Government claims there is an adequate supply of gas, on the other, the gas crisis in a major tourist destination like Mussoorie has brought trade to a complete standstill.
Meanwhile, the plight of domestic consumers is no less severe. Consumers complain that while the gas agency insists on online booking, the booking helpline often remains non-functional. Even when they visit the agency in person, they are told that they will receive their cylinder only after a delay of two to three days. For large families, a single cylinder lasting 25 days is insufficient, leading to disruptions in their daily routines and necessities.
In this regard, Pradeep Sati, Manager of the Indian Gas Agency, stated that while the availability of domestic cylinders is currently adequate, distribution is being carried out strictly in accordance with government guidelines. He noted that Mussoorie’s geographical terrain is challenging; previously, people could collect cylinders directly from the warehouse—a system that has now been discontinued—resulting in disrupted supplies to remote areas. Regarding commercial cylinders, he clarified that they currently possess only a limited stock, which is being allocated on a priority basis to critical institutions such as the ITBP and the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration. Under these circumstances, it is currently not proving possible to make commercial cylinders available to small-scale traders. He further noted that consumer frustration is mounting during the gas distribution process, a situation that has necessitated a request for police protection. Meanwhile, Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi stated that the government is making continuous efforts to streamline the gas supply. The supply of domestic cylinders has recently improved, and commercial cylinders will also be made available shortly. He appealed to the public to exercise patience and cooperate with the government during these challenging times.
The escalating gas crisis in Mussoorie has not only disrupted daily life for the general public but has also begun to cast a negative shadow over business activities, even before the commencement of the tourism season. If a swift resolution is not found, this situation could have a direct and adverse impact on the economy of this tourist city.
