Daijiworld Media Network – Lucknow

Lucknow, Mar 14: Amid the ongoing LPG supply concerns, the Uttar Pradesh Food and Civil Supplies Department conducted raids at 1,483 locations across Uttar Pradesh to check black marketing of cooking gas cylinders, officials said.

The raids were carried out on Friday in coordination with the district administration, resulting in the registration of 24 FIRs and the arrest of six persons, according to an official statement issued by the state government.

The operation was launched following directions from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to strictly monitor the supply of LPG cylinders and prevent hoarding or irregularities.

The statement said the Food and Civil Supplies Department, along with district authorities, has been continuously monitoring the LPG distribution system and conducting inspections across the state to ensure there is no shortage or malpractice.

Chief Secretary S P Goyal has also directed all district magistrates to take necessary steps to maintain the availability of petrol, diesel and LPG cylinders in their respective districts.

During the drive, enforcement teams conducted inspections at a total of 1,483 locations. Four FIRs were registered against LPG distributors, while 20 cases were filed against individuals allegedly involved in black marketing.

Officials said six persons were arrested on the spot and prosecution proceedings have been initiated against 19 others.

The government also said that LPG cylinders are being delivered to consumers based on bookings through 4,108 distributors operating across the state. Authorities added that adequate stock of cylinders is currently available with distributors and domestic LPG refills are being supplied as required.

To closely monitor the supply system and address complaints quickly, a 24-hour control room has been set up at the office of the Food Commissioner. Officials from the department have been deployed there, and similar control rooms have been established in all districts across Uttar Pradesh.