Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 02 June 2023
The Department of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs has issued a notification emphasizing the weighing of LPG cylinders at the time of delivery when demanded by the consumer. This initiative aims to protect consumer rights and ensure the accurate quantity of LPG being delivered to households.
According to the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, framed under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, all authorized LPG distributors are required to provide their delivery personnel with a check weigher or non-automatic weighing instrument for measuring the quantity of LPG cylinders during delivery.
Consumers are now empowered to demand the weighing of LPG cylinders at the time of delivery, enabling them to verify the exact quantity received. Domestic LPG cylinders have a standard weight of the empty cylinder plus 14.2 kg of LPG, with a maximum permissible error of 150 grams. Similarly, the weight of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder is the sum of the empty cylinder weight and 19 kg of LPG, with a maximum permissible error of 1%. For a 5 kg commercial LPG cylinder, the weight comprises the empty cylinder weight and 5 kg of LPG, with a maximum permissible error of 1.5%. The empty weight of the cylinder is printed on its body.
To ensure accurate measurements, authorized distributors must have their weighing machines verified and stamped by the Legal Metrology Section in the Directorate of Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs before using them for commercial transactions.
The Department of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs has consistently advised all authorized LPG distributors to provide weighing instruments during the delivery of LPG cylinders for the convenience of consumers. It reiterates the need for strict compliance with the rules and urges distributors to make necessary arrangements for weighing the cylinders promptly. Failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in strict legal action against the distributors.
The Department further encourages consumers to report any malpractice or misconduct by individuals, shops, or establishments to the Toll-Free No. 1800-345-3197 or telephone no. 03192-230337. The Department remains committed to safeguarding consumer interests and addressing any concerns promptly.
For further information or clarification, consumers can contact the Department of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs directly.