Petrol pumps, LPG agencies cheating consumers: Odisha Minister

The fuel and gas consumers are being cheated by some of the petrol pumps and gas agencies across Odisha, said Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Tuesday. 

While addressing a gathering at the state-level celebration of the National Consumer Day, Minister Patra said various fuel stations and gas agencies are short-changing the consumers. 

While underscoring the need for strengthening consumer courts, he said there is a need to boost inspection efforts at both district and state levels to uphold fairness and accuracy.

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Minister Patra disclosed that during an inspection, it was found that as many as 371 fuel tanks were dispensing less than the asked quantity. Petrol was being dispensed at 20 to 50 grams less than the promised 5 litres. Additionally, cooking gas cylinders, expected to weigh 14 and 19 kilograms, were also reported to be underweight.

“During a search operation, it was found that 371 petrol pumps were dispensing less than the asked quantity. If five litres of petrol is dispensed, there is a shortage ranging from 20 grams to 50 grams. The same issue is happening in the case of LPG,” said the Minister. 

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Stating that the system deteriorated in the last 24 years, he said that it was time for the previous govt to rectify that. He also emphasised the need to inspect the fuel stations and empower the consumer courts both at the district and state levels.

Minister Patra's call for action reflects a growing demand for transparency and accountability in consumer transactions, vital in safeguarding consumer interests in the state.