Kohima Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem has mandated intensified regulation and oversight of commercial LPG distribution in the district. This directive, rooted in the Essential Commodities Act of 1955 and the LPG (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Order from 2000, aims to enhance transparency, curb diversion and misuse, and ensure fair and equitable distribution of LPG at just prices. Under this order, all LPG distributors in Kohima must maintain and submit comprehensive, periodic records of their commercial LPG cylinder sales and supplies, including deliveries to medical and educational institutions. Furthermore, these distributors are restricted from supplying commercial LPG cylinders to hotels, restaurants, and similar establishments without a valid authorization from the Deputy Commissioner’s office.
Additionally, the directive requires distributors to keep meticulous stock registers and transaction logs, which must be available for inspection by the District LPG Monitoring Committee or other authorized personnel. Regular compliance inspections will be conducted by the monitoring committee in collaboration with enforcement agencies. The Deputy Commissioner has cautioned that any breaches of this order will lead to severe penalties under Section 7 of the Essential Commodities Act, encompassing imprisonment, fines, stock seizure, and potential suspension or revocation of distributor licenses. The order is effective immediately and will persist until further notice, with a strong appeal to all stakeholders for strict compliance in the interest of public welfare and transparency.
