Bhubaneswar: Long queues and confusion were seen outside several cooking gas agencies in Bhubaneswar as residents rushed to collect LPG cylinders amid fears of a possible shortage. The panic comes against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which many consumers believe could affect gas supplies.

Customers gathered outside agencies for hours, but many returned home without cylinders. Heated arguments and chaotic scenes were reported in front of several outlets as people questioned why they were not receiving gas even after making advance bookings.

Many consumers also said they were unable to make new bookings throughout the day. Gas agencies reportedly told customers that fresh stock had not arrived and delivery could be delayed. Some agencies also refused to provide new LPG connections, citing instructions from higher authorities.

The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation area has 28 gas agencies serving around 4,62,880 customers. Earlier, cylinders were usually delivered within one or two days of booking. However, customers claim that in recent days, deliveries have been delayed for more than a week.

Due to rumours about a possible LPG shortage linked to the Middle East conflict, many people have started booking cylinders in advance. This sudden surge in bookings led to large crowds outside agencies across the city. Customers who had already booked earlier visited the agencies hoping to get their cylinders, but were turned away.

Some residents alleged that agencies were taking advantage of the situation by citing the 25-day rule, which allows booking the next cylinder only after 25 days of the previous delivery.

However, officials have denied any shortage of LPG in Odisha.

Indian Oil CGM Kamal Sheel said the Middle East conflict has not affected LPG supply. According to him, there is adequate stock in the state and distribution is continuing normally. He said action will be taken if any agency is found harassing customers. He also clarified that there is no restriction on issuing new LPG connections.