Cuttack: The district administration conducted a series of coordinated raids across Cuttack on Wednesday, seizing as many as 102 domestic LPG cylinders from hotels, roadside eateries and other commercial establishments.Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde said, “Ten simultaneous raids were carried out in different parts of the district by joint teams comprising officials from the district administration, supply department and police. The raids were aimed at curbing the diversion of subsidised domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes, which is a violation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Order.”During inspection, teams found several hotels and food outlets using domestic cylinders instead of commercial ones, leading to seizure of cylinders on the spot. Officials also initiated legal proceedings against the erring establishments under relevant provisions of the Essential Commodities Act.Shinde said, “The drive was part of an ongoing effort to prevent misuse of subsidised LPG meant for household consumers. The administration has received repeated complaints regarding the illegal diversion of domestic LPG cylinders for commercial activities. Such practices not only deprive genuine household consumers of their rightful supply but also pose serious safety hazards.”He added: “We have seized a 102 domestic LPG cylinders from hotels, roadside eateries and several commercial establishments. Strict action will be taken against violators. Regular inspections and surprise raids will continue in the coming days to ensure compliance and to safeguard public interest.”Officials urged citizens to report any such misuse of domestic LPG cylinders to the local supply office so that timely action can be taken.
