Illegal LPG Cylinder Operation Uncovered at Lucknow Girls' College
In a significant enforcement action, officials in Lucknow have exposed an illicit domestic LPG cylinder trade operating within the premises of a prominent girls' college located in the Hazratganj area. The discovery, made on Monday, led to the seizure of four filled LPG cylinders and the registration of a formal case under the Essential Commodities Act against the vehicle owner involved.
Tip-Off Leads to Swift Action
According to the First Information Report (FIR), the operation was initiated following a confidential tip-off received by the District Supply Officer of Lucknow from an informer. The input specifically indicated that illegal trading of domestic LPG cylinders was being conducted inside the college campus situated on Rana Pratap Marg.
Acting promptly on this information, a dedicated team comprising Regional Food Officer Parvez Akhtar (BKT) and Supply Inspector Harsh Mishra (Hazratganj) arrived at the location around 1 PM. After properly identifying themselves to the college security personnel, the officials entered the premises and commenced a thorough search of the area.
Discovery of Contraband Cylinders
During their inspection, the enforcement team discovered a black motorcycle parked just inside the main gate of the college. Upon closer examination, they found four filled domestic LPG cylinders loaded onto the vehicle. Notably, no individual was present at the scene to claim ownership of either the motorcycle or the cylinders, nor to provide any explanation for their presence within the educational institution.
When questioned by authorities, college staff members categorically denied any knowledge regarding the vehicle or the LPG cylinders. Following standard procedure, the four cylinders along with the motorcycle were officially seized and subsequently handed over to Umesh, the representative of Smriti Indane Gas Agency in Hazratganj, for proper custody and further investigation.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
With no individual found at the location, authorities contacted the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) to determine ownership details of the vehicle. The investigation revealed that the motorcycle was registered in the name of Gaurav Yadav, a resident of Khadra.
College authorities have formally informed the administration that the seized cylinders had absolutely no connection with their institution, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant campus environment.
Subsequently, a formal case has been registered against Gaurav Yadav under Sections 3/7 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. This legislation is specifically designed to regulate the production, supply, and distribution of essential commodities, including LPG, to prevent hoarding, black marketing, and illegal trade practices that can disrupt public supply chains and safety standards.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about the illegal diversion and trade of domestic LPG cylinders, which can create artificial shortages and pose significant safety risks. Authorities continue to investigate the matter to determine the full scope of the operation and whether additional individuals may be involved in this illicit trade network.
