Bhubaneswar, Mar 11: Bhubaneswar witnessed long queues and widespread confusion outside several cooking gas agencies on Tuesday, as residents rushed to collect LPG cylinders amid rumours of a potential shortage linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict. Many consumers fear that the situation could disrupt gas supplies to the city.

Customers reportedly waited for hours, but many left empty-handed, sparking heated arguments and chaotic scenes at multiple outlets. People questioned why their pre-booked cylinders were not being delivered despite paying in advance.

Several residents also said they were unable to place new bookings throughout the day. Gas agencies cited delays in fresh stock arrivals and informed customers that deliveries could be postponed. Some outlets refused to issue new LPG connections, citing instructions from higher authorities.

The sudden rush was reportedly worsened by a surge in advance bookings as residents reacted to the rumours of a shortage. Some consumers alleged that agencies were enforcing the 25-day rule—which allows booking the next cylinder only after 25 days of the previous delivery to manage demand, but officials have denied any LPG shortage in Odisha.

The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) area has 28 gas agencies serving around 4,62,880 consumers. While cylinders were typically delivered within one or two days of booking, residents claim that deliveries have recently been delayed for more than a week, adding to public frustration.

Authorities have yet to issue a detailed statement on measures to address the situation, leaving consumers anxious about uninterrupted LPG supply in the coming days.