Vijayanagara District Intensifies Inspections to Curb Domestic LPG Misuse
In response to the suspension of commercial cooking gas cylinder supply, the food and civil supplies department in Vijayanagara district has launched a comprehensive crackdown on the potential misuse of domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes. The initiative, which began on Saturday, involves rigorous inspections, checks, awareness campaigns, and formal warnings across the district.
Official Statement on Inspection Drive
Riaz, deputy director of the food and civil supplies department, explained the rationale behind the operation. "The government is making all efforts to restore the supply of commercial cylinders. However, during this phase when supply is unavailable, the chances of domestic LPG cylinders being misused have increased, and complaints were also received from some places. Hence, inspections and checks under the leadership of food inspectors in respective taluks began on Saturday," he stated.
According to Riaz, food inspectors have been actively visiting various establishments including:
- Hotels
- Bakeries
- Fast food centers
- Auto stands
- Other commercial establishments
These officials have issued stern warnings against using domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes and emphasized that legal action would be initiated against any violations of the rules.
Impact on Local Businesses and Alternative Solutions
The commercial cylinder shortage has forced several hotels in the city to adapt their cooking methods. Many establishments have turned to traditional alternatives such as:
- Earthen stoves
- Firewood cooking
- Reducing menu items while continuing service
Interestingly, despite the increased reliance on firewood stoves, observations made during visits to local depots on Saturday revealed that business at firewood depots had not seen a significant rise. This suggests that businesses may be managing with existing supplies or finding other temporary solutions.
Another expectation that failed to materialize was a sharp increase in demand for electric induction stoves. Electronic stores reported only a modest 30% increase in sales compared to normal days, indicating that businesses are exploring various alternatives rather than making significant capital investments in new equipment.
Official Clarification on Domestic LPG Availability
Deputy Commissioner Kavita S Mannikeri addressed concerns about domestic LPG availability in the district. She clarified that there is no shortage of domestic LPG cylinders in Vijayanagara district and urged the public not to panic over rumors circulating on social media. These rumors had suggested that cooking gas supply would be disrupted due to the ongoing war situation in the Middle East.
Mannikeri provided reassurance about the national supply chain, stating that LPG production and bottling processes across the country are functioning well with sufficient stock available. However, she acknowledged that technical issues are appearing on servers as many consumers are booking cylinders simultaneously.
Booking Procedures and Public Cooperation
The deputy commissioner outlined the proper procedures for cylinder bookings:
- Consumers can book their next cylinder only after 25 days from receiving their previous one
- Multiple booking channels are available including IVRS, missed calls, WhatsApp, mobile apps, and UPI
- For complaints or technical issues, the public can contact the deputy director of food or food inspectors at the district office
The district administration reiterated that using domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes or storing them illegally constitutes a punishable offence. Officials urged the public to report any such violations they encounter, emphasizing community cooperation in maintaining proper LPG usage during this period of commercial cylinder shortage.
