A token system for LPG cylinders has been introduced in Calangute, Goa, due to a severe supply shortage that has led to panic, long queues, and fears of hoarding. It is reported that only 300 cylinders are being issued daily through direct receipts at booking points, and consumers must collect them from the godown at 2 pm. This has replaced the earlier system of home delivery. However, the logic behind stopping home delivery is unclear. Earlier, consumers booked cylinders on their mobile phones and the cylinders were delivered to their homes. Since only booked cylinders were supplied, the system already ensured proper distribution.
If the authorities feared black marketing or misuse during delivery, stricter monitoring could have been introduced instead of cancelling home delivery. For example, a police personnel could accompany the delivery vehicle to ensure transparency. Stopping home delivery has created inconvenience, especially for the elderly and those without transport. The authorities should review this decision and restore home delivery as soon as possible.
