District administration has recently launched the crackdown and raids in several towns amid black marketing and hoarding of cooking gas cylinders. It includes the Patiala, Nabha, Rajpura, Samana, Devigarh, and Patran where raids performed. District Food and Civil Supplies (DFCS) Department team conduct raids at 42 locations in district, and seizing over 100 LPG cylinders in Patiala.
The department also inspect gas agency warehouse and check weight of cylinders delivered to domestic customers.
Police seize 100 LPG cylinders from black market Patiala
The raids involved flying squads made up of DFCS Controller Ravinder Kaur, District Food Supply Officers, Assistant Food Supply Officers, and Food Supply Inspectors. They also conducted random inspections at eateries, roadside food stalls, and restaurants to monitor the misuse of domestic LPG cylinders. Confiscated cylinders sent to nearby warehouses or collection centers.
This crackdown comes amid consumer panic, with long lines seen outside gas agencies in various parts of the district. Many residents left empty-handed as demand surged due to fears of a shortage. Reports also indicated that domestic LPG cylinders selling for Rs 1,700-2,000, while commercial cylinders were allegedly priced at Rs 2,500-3,000 on the black market.
More raids at gas agencies and black markets in several towns
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Varjeet Walia said that several steps taken to ensure a steady supply of LPG to domestic consumers. He mentioned that surprise inspections happens at gas agencies to guarantee timely and clear distribution. “Eight teams deployed for this drive. Although gas agencies are still taking bookings, the online booking systems for 58 agencies affected due to panic bookings, causing problems for consumers,” he said.
Walia warned that if any irregularities, stock manipulation, or black marketing found during inspections, strict legal action taken against the concerned agency, including cancelling their licenses.
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