Bhubaneswar, Sept. 15 (UDN): The Odisha government has intensified its crackdown on the illegal hoarding and black marketing of domestic LPG, with enforcement teams seizing 8,457 cooking gas cylinders during raids and inspections across the state.

 Representational Image 

The Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department carried out inspections at 3,838 locations as part of the statewide enforcement drive aimed at checking unauthorised storage and diversion of LPG cylinders.

498 cases filed under Essential Commodities Act

The crackdown has resulted in the registration of 47 FIRs, while authorities have initiated 498 cases under the Essential Commodities (EC) Act against those allegedly involved in violations.

So far, nine people have been arrested in connection with the illegal activities detected during the enforcement operations.

Action against LPG hoarding

Officials said the drive is focused on individuals and entities allegedly stockpiling domestic LPG cylinders with the intention of selling them through the black market.

The department has directed enforcement teams to maintain vigilance and take legal action against those found violating regulations governing the storage and distribution of cooking gas.

Consumers’ interests in focus

The government said the enforcement campaign is aimed at preventing artificial shortages and ensuring that domestic LPG meant for genuine consumers is not diverted for unauthorised commercial activity.

Officials maintained that inspections and raids will continue across Odisha to curb black marketing and strengthen monitoring of the LPG distribution network.

The latest action comes as the state administration seeks to ensure transparent and fair distribution of cooking gas while protecting consumers from illegal stockpiling and unauthorised sales.