The Hindu : National : Toll-free number facility for LPG consumers coming

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Wednesday, Sep 10, 2008
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Toll-free number facility for LPG consumers coming

Sujay Mehdudia

OMCs asked to actively address the grievances of consumers

OMCs asked to put in place necessary infrastructure
Additional 10 lakh cylinders to meet winter rush

NEW DELHI: After having issued “strict directions” to the oil marketing companies (OMCs) to eliminate the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) connections waiting list within two months, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry, in yet another customer friendly initiative, is all set to launch an all-India “toll-free” number for redressal of grievances of the consumers.

Highly placed sources said Petroleum Secretary R. S. Pande, during a recent review with the OMCs, directed them to submit a concrete plan to unfold the launch of toll-free number facility within 30 days. The OMCs were asked to put in place necessary infrastructure to facilitate an early launch of the initiative.

The sources said the OMCs were also told that they should actively look into the concerns of the consumers and not trouble them.

‘Eliminate waiting list’

“Indian Oil Corporation, the biggest retailer of petro products, was directed to prepare a scheme in this connection and also work towards eliminating the waiting list of LGP connections.

“It should also be ensured there is no shortage of cylinders and restrictions should be imposed on release of new connections or cylinders to the consumers.

“An additional 10 lakh cylinders were being purchased to meet the winter rush so that a crisis is averted,” said a senior official.

When contacted, Mr. Pande said that no other public sector undertaking or Ministry had such a large public interface than the Petroleum Ministry and the OMCs under it.

“The OMCs have been asked to satisfy the citizens and leave no room for complaints. I will review the situation regarding elimination of LPG waiting list very soon with the companies concerned to ensure that it is being properly implemented,” he said.

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