Authorities in Chhattisgarh have intensified action against hoarding and black marketing of cooking gas, leading to a major Chhattisgarh LPG cylinder seizure operation across the state. Officials confirmed that a total of 741 LPG cylinders were seized from 102 locations during inspections carried out by teams from the Food Department and district administration.
The crackdown comes amid concerns of potential supply disruptions linked to the ongoing crisis in West Asia, prompting authorities to monitor distribution channels closely and prevent illegal stockpiling of domestic LPG cylinders.
Raipur Records Highest Number of Seizures
According to an official release, Raipur district recorded the highest number of confiscations, with 392 domestic LPG cylinders seized during the ongoing drive. Bilaspur district followed with 130 cylinders recovered, while the remaining cylinders were seized from several other districts in the state.
Officials said the Chhattisgarh LPG cylinder seizure drive was launched after reports surfaced about illegal hoarding and black marketing of domestic cooking gas in different regions. Surprise inspections are being conducted regularly to ensure fair distribution and availability of essential fuel supplies.
Adequate LPG Stock Available in the State
Despite the seizures, authorities have assured residents that there is no shortage of LPG in Chhattisgarh. The state currently has five operational LPG bottling plants—two each operated by Indian Oil Corporation and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, and one by Bharat Petroleum Corporation.
These plants are functioning at full capacity to meet demand, and refilled cylinders are being supplied regularly to 540 LPG distributors across all districts. Officials emphasized that the Chhattisgarh LPG cylinder seizure operation is aimed only at preventing illegal hoarding, not because of any shortage of supply.
Fuel Supply Situation Stable
The government also confirmed that petrol and diesel supplies remain stable across the state. Consumers are being served through 2,465 fuel pumps, ensuring uninterrupted fuel distribution. Authorities reiterated that adequate stock of both cooking gas and fuel is available and there is no reason for panic buying.
Monitoring Committee Formed
To closely monitor the situation, Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel chaired a review meeting on March 12 with Food Department Secretary Reena Baba Saheb Kangale and representatives of major oil companies. Following the meeting, a state-level control and monitoring committee was formed on March 13 under the Director of the Food Department.
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Officials noted that the Chhattisgarh LPG cylinder seizure drive will continue as part of ongoing efforts to maintain fair supply and prevent black marketing of essential commodities.
New Booking Rule for LPG Refills
Oil companies have introduced a minimum gap of 25 days between two LPG refill bookings to ensure fair distribution and avoid misuse. Consumers have been advised to follow the new guideline while placing refill orders.
Authorities have also urged citizens not to believe rumours or misinformation about LPG shortages. The availability and distribution of LPG, petrol, and diesel are being reviewed daily by the government.
Complaint Helpline for Consumers
Consumers facing issues related to LPG, petrol, or diesel supply can lodge complaints through the Food Department call centre numbers 1800-233-3663 and 1967.
The Union Secretary of Consumer Affairs also informed state officials during a video conference that sufficient stock of domestic LPG and petroleum products is available across the country, and states have been directed to take strict action against hoarding and black marketing.
The ongoing Chhattisgarh LPG cylinder seizure operation highlights the government’s efforts to maintain transparency and ensure that essential fuel supplies reach consumers without disruption.