Kanpur District Administration Launches Major Crackdown on LPG Black Marketing
Under the direct supervision of District Magistrate Jitendra Pratap Singh, the Kanpur district administration executed a stringent operation on Wednesday targeting the widespread issues of black marketing and illegal refilling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders. This decisive action resulted in the recovery of 49 LPG cylinders along with specialized refilling apparatus from two separate locations within the district.
First Raid Uncovers Large-Scale Illegal Operation
During the evening hours of Wednesday, officials conducted a surprise raid at the residence of Iqbal, son of Siddiqui, located in the Gwaltoli area. The operation yielded a significant haul: 46 LPG cylinders of both domestic and commercial categories, six refilling devices, and one electronic weighing scale. Preliminary investigations confirmed that illegal refilling activities were being conducted at this premises. Consequently, authorities are in the process of registering a First Information Report (FIR) under the stringent provisions of the Essential Commodities Act of 1955, specifically sections 3 and 7.
Second Inspection Reveals Additional Violations
In a simultaneous action, inspection teams visited a shop owned by an individual named Imran, situated near the Mohalla Phephufunganj water tank within the food supply zone. At this location, officials discovered three LPG cylinders—two empty and one filled—along with refilling equipment and a nozzle. Similar legal proceedings are being initiated against the shop owner under the same sections of the Essential Commodities Act, ensuring uniform enforcement of the law.
Administrative Measures and Public Grievance Redressal
District Supply Officer Rakesh Kumar provided detailed insights into the administrative framework established to combat these malpractices. He revealed that a dedicated control room was inaugurated at the district office on March 11 specifically to address and resolve gas supply-related complaints promptly. This initiative has already processed a total of 101 complaints received via the control room's landline and dedicated WhatsApp number. Of these, 14 complaints were resolved on the same day they were registered, with the remaining cases being addressed systematically in accordance with established protocols.
Enhanced Surveillance and Patrol Mechanisms
On the explicit instructions of District Magistrate Jitendra Pratap Singh, the administration has deployed nine regional food officers and eighteen supply inspectors across the district. These teams are tasked with conducting continuous patrols and maintaining vigilant surveillance over gas agencies and petrol pumps to prevent any illicit activities. Kumar emphasized that this rigorous monitoring and strict legal action against any form of black marketing or illegal refilling will persist unabated.
Call Centre Established for Public Assistance
Additional District Magistrate (Civil Supplies) Rajesh Kumar announced the establishment of a specialized call centre to facilitate the swift resolution of LPG gas supply issues. The public can register complaints and seek assistance by contacting the designated landline number 0512-2988763. Furthermore, a mobile number 6394616122 has been issued for the same purpose, enabling citizens to report incidents of black marketing and provide crucial information regarding illegal activities related to LPG supply.
This comprehensive crackdown underscores the district administration's commitment to ensuring the lawful distribution of essential commodities and protecting consumer interests from exploitation.
