Chhattisgarh Government Cracks Down on LPG Cylinder Misuse
Government Action Against LPG Misuse
The Chhattisgarh government has intensified its efforts to curb the misuse of domestic LPG cylinders, conducting over 200 raids across the state and seizing more than 1,000 cylinders. Officials reported that the majority of the confiscated cylinders were from Raipur district. According to the food department, a total of 1,013 LPG cylinders were seized during 214 raids aimed at preventing the commercial use of domestic cooking gas. Raipur alone accounted for 392 cylinders, followed by Bilaspur with 201 cylinders.
This initiative aims to ensure a steady supply of domestic LPG to genuine consumers while preventing the diversion of subsidized cylinders to hotels, commercial establishments, and other unauthorized users.
Review Meeting and Future Plans
A review meeting chaired by Food Secretary Reena Babasaheb Kangale assessed the actions taken. Senior officials from the department and representatives from oil companies were present at the meeting. The Secretary instructed officials to enhance monitoring and ensure smooth LPG distribution across all districts. Additionally, officials decided to promote various booking options, including mobile numbers, WhatsApp, IVRS, and online platforms, to facilitate easier refilling for consumers.
To maintain supply balance, the state has implemented a priority-based distribution system for commercial LPG in line with central government guidelines. Essential services such as hospitals, educational institutions, military and paramilitary units, jails, railway stations, and airport canteens will receive gas supplies according to their monthly requirements.
Regulating LPG Supply
The supply of LPG to government offices, guest houses, public sector units, and commercial establishments will be limited to a certain percentage of previous consumption to prevent shortages. The food department has also activated its toll-free complaint number, stating that complaints related to LPG booking and supply are being addressed on a priority basis in coordination with oil companies. Officials emphasized that this campaign will continue in the coming days to ensure that domestic consumers do not face any shortage of cooking gas.