LUCKNOW, March 12 -- Amid a panic triggered by rumours of a shortage of LPG cylinders in the city, an underground network of illegal roadside refillers appears to be benefiting the most. Vendors are allegedly charging nearly double or even triple the usual rate to refill small cylinders on the black market.

The situation has come to the fore despite the government assuring consumers that adequate LPG stocks are available and asking people to avoid unnecessary bookings. The panic appears to be unfounded as the government has raised the refill period for LPG cylinders from 21 to 25 days - a difference of only four days.

Nevertheless, a reality check by Hindustan Times found that several illegal gas filling operators are exploiting the sit...