LPG Shortage: Crackdown on LPG Hoarding Across Indian States Amid Ongoing Gas Shortage

Amid the ongoing LPG shortage in several parts of India, state governments have launched strict crackdowns against hoarding and black marketing of gas cylinders. In Chhattisgarh, authorities carried out raids in 102 locations and seized 741 LPG cylinders during a major operation against illegal stockpiling. Officials said the action was taken after reports of hoarding increased following the recent tensions in the Gulf region. Similar action was taken in Baran, where the food and civil supplies department conducted raids against illegal refilling and black marketing of LPG cylinders. Special teams carried out searches at 44 locations and confiscated 71 cylinders. The gas shortage is also affecting local businesses. In Hyderabad, the famous Hyderabadi Haleem industry has been hit hard. Due to the disruption in LPG supply, production of haleem has dropped by 40–50 percent. Some restaurants have started cooking using firewood, but the rising demand for wood has increased prices and reduced supply, forcing businesses to buy it at higher costs. In Uttar Pradesh, authorities have also intensified action against black marketing networks. Officials conducted raids at 1,483 locations, registered 24 FIRs, and arrested six people accused of hoarding LPG cylinders. The government has said that strict monitoring of LPG supply chains will continue to prevent illegal trade and ensure fair distribution of cooking gas.

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