Nagpur Division Launches Major Crackdown on LPG Black Marketing
The Food and Civil Supplies Department of Nagpur division has initiated a comprehensive enforcement drive to combat the illegal trade of domestic LPG cylinders. This decisive action comes in response to persistent rumors of a shortage, which have created unnecessary panic among residents.
Widespread Raids Across Multiple Districts
Under the direct supervision of Divisional Commissioner Vijayalakshmi Bidari, authorities conducted meticulous inspections at the establishments of 163 gas distributors throughout the division. District collectors provided crucial guidance to ensure the operations were thorough and effective.
The enforcement teams successfully seized 110 domestic LPG cylinders with an estimated market value of approximately ₹1 lakh. The raids were strategically executed across several districts to maximize impact and coverage.
District-Wise Inspection Breakdown
The extensive operation spanned the entire Nagpur division with the following district-level activities:
- Gadchiroli: 70 gas distributor establishments inspected
- Bhandara: 37 distributor locations examined
- Gondia: 17 distributor premises checked
- Nagpur: 19 inspections conducted by district supply officers, plus 3 additional inspections by food distribution officers
- Wardha: 15 distributor establishments scrutinized
- Chandrapur: 2 distributor locations investigated
Legal Actions and Arrests
The enforcement drive resulted in significant legal consequences for violators. Authorities registered five criminal cases and made one arrest in connection with the black marketing activities.
Supply Commissioner Anil Bansod provided specific details about the case distribution: "Two cases were filed in Nagpur district, two more in Chandrapur district, and one case was registered in Gondia district."
Official Reassurance to Citizens
Divisional Commissioner Vijayalakshmi Bidari has issued a strong appeal to the public, urging citizens to remain calm and avoid unnecessary panic. "I appeal to all citizens not to believe in baseless rumors or engage in unnecessary crowding at LPG distribution points," she stated emphatically.
Bidari provided concrete reassurance about supply availability: "Sufficient stocks of domestic LPG, along with adequate supplies of petrol and diesel, are readily available throughout the division. There is no genuine shortage that should cause concern among residents."
Coordinated Supply Management
To ensure uninterrupted supply and prevent any diversion of domestic cylinders to commercial use, a robust coordination mechanism has been established. District administrations, local police forces, and oil companies are working in close collaboration.
This multi-agency approach aims to maintain regular supply chains while simultaneously preventing illegal activities that could disrupt the legitimate distribution of essential cooking fuel to households across the region.
