Kochi: Those who lost their gas cylinders in the
flood can buy new ones without paying taxes.
The decision was taken at a meeting convened by civil supplies secretary Mini P Antony in Ernakulam on Tuesday.
The new cylinders can be bought at Rs 1,450 each. Currently, people pay Rs 2,600 plus taxes.
“Food safety commissioner spoke to oil companies. The company officials have agreed to supply new cylinders to those who lost cylinders. Those who need them can approach their respective agencies,” said a civil supplies officer.
The department has also decided to issue duplicate ration cards to those who lost them in the flood. One should also submit an affidavit with the application form, which will be made available at civil supply offices and on the website of the department.
Separate officials will be posted to receive the applications and the help desk will start functioning at the supply offices in three days.
The duplicate cards will be distributed from September 2 and the process will be completed by September 10. Damaged cards should be returned.
