Crackdown on illicit LPG refilling centres

Bhopal

Intensifying efforts to curb misuse of domestic gas cylinders, district authorities carried out a major operation on Tuesday leading to the seizure of 55 cylinders and other equipment from illegal refilling centres.

A joint inspection team led by District Supply Controller Ajit Kumar Kujur, under the directives of Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh, carried out surprise raids at six locations across Bhopal. The team, including Assistant Supply Officer Ashok Kumar Satyarthi and Junior Supply Officer Pravin Dubey, targeted unauthorised gas storage and transfer operations that were endangering public safety.

The largest seizure took place in Anand Nagar, where nine domestic LPG cylinders and 30 gas consumer diaries were confiscated from the residence of Manoj Daryani. In another raid near Khajuri Kalan Road, officials uncovered 20 domestic gas cylinders, three commercial cylinders, a gas transfer motor pump with regulator pipes, and a weighing machine at the home of Kripal Singh Rajput.

At Platinum Plaza near Mata Mandir, an illegal gas refilling centre operated by Ansar Ahmed Khan was dismantled, resulting in the confiscation of 13 domestic cylinders and a gas transfer motor pump. A further raid behind the water tank near Platinum Plaza uncovered another stash of 10 domestic gas cylinders and additional refilling equipment in a dilapidated house.

In total, officials seized 55 domestic gas cylinders, three gas transfer motor pumps, and other related equipment worth Rs 1.55 lakh. The accused were found violating the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Order, 2000, and legal action is being pursued under Sections 3 and 7 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.

Authorities have warned that strict action will continue against those involved in the illegal trade of domestic gas cylinders, which not only exploits consumers but also poses serious fire hazards in residential areas.