HPCL to launch lighter, safer fiber LPG cylinders across India
State-run Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) is all set to launch new, colorful LPG (domestic cooking gas) cylinders soon across India in a few months. These new fiber-made composite cylinders are lighter and easier to handle compared to the existing steel cylinders; they come with various safety measures and are safer too. Here's how much consumers will have to pay for these modern cylinders.
The composite LPG cylinders will be available in capacities of 2kg, 5kg, and 10kg of domestic cooking gas. The metal cylinders in use contain 14.2kg of cooking gas. These cylinders are, however, expected to cost more than the existing ones. Also, in order to receive these modern cylinders, consumers will have to pay around Rs. 1,000 and also return their old, steel cylinders.
The ओJAS range by #HPCL are light-weight, composite cylinders for the consumers’ cooking needs. These are easy-to-use and a more convenient alternative to the regular metal cylinders. pic.twitter.com/8QH0DVGnCn
— Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (@HPCL) February 24, 2019
HPCL tweeted the "OJAS Range" by the company are "light-weight, composite cylinders" for consumers' cooking needs. It said, "These are easy-to-use and a more convenient alternative to the regular metal cylinders." In a Facebook post on 2 February, HPCL stated it has introduced the "OJAS" composite cylinders for LPG, adding, "These modern cylinders come with an improved design and are completely safe to use."
HPCL received the go-ahead from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry for launching the composite LPG cylinders reportedly after years of delay. These modern cylinders are better in terms of safety compared to the existing metal cylinders. They ensure fire safety and even when engulfed by fire, the new cylinders do not explode thanks to the fiberglass technology.
As part of a pilot project, HPCL has already started delivering the modern fiber-made cylinders in Maharashtra's Pune and Gujarat's Ahmedabad first. These new cylinders will be rolled out by the state-run company across India soon.
The composite cylinders, part of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana initiative, would reportedly weigh half the metal cylinders but would cost double that of the existing ones. They would be corrosion-resistant, UV-protected, as well as translucent so that consumers can clearly see the amount of cooking gas inside. Among other important features of these cylinders will be the safety features that prevent cylinder mishaps.
