Bengaluru and Kolar Authorities Launch Major Crackdown on Illegal LPG Activities
In response to growing reports of a domestic gas cylinder shortage, authorities in Bengaluru and Kolar have initiated a rigorous crackdown on illegal refilling operations and unsafe storage practices. This coordinated effort involves food inspectors and local police conducting multiple raids across various jurisdictions to curb hoarding, unauthorized sales, and hazardous storage of LPG cylinders.
Targeted Raids Uncover Widespread Violations
The enforcement actions have been concentrated in key areas including Chikkajala, Kengeri, and Peenya police limits. In one significant operation on Saturday, officials raided Mahalakshmi Enterprises in Mylasandra. Food inspector for Bengaluru South, Mahantagowda Tadligi, reported that the owner, Mangaram, was found storing LPG cylinders from multiple companies and selling them at inflated prices. Fifteen cylinders were seized, and Mangaram has been remanded to judicial custody.
Another raid occurred on Friday at Vinayaka Gas Agency in Chokkasandra. Food inspector Prasanna Kumar, alongside Peenya police, discovered that owner Janardhan had stored approximately 45 cylinders without proper safety measures or a valid license, also selling them at higher rates. Janardhan has been arrested following the inspection.
In a third case on Friday, Savitha Unki, food inspector from Yelahanka, and Yelahanka police targeted Annapoorna Enterprises. Owner Kumaraswamy was arrested for allegedly storing 209 empty cylinders from various companies, again lacking safety protocols and a valid license.
Legal Actions and Regulatory Framework
All these cases have been formally registered under stringent legal provisions. The charges include violations of the Essential Commodities Act, the LPG (Supply and Distribution) Control Order, and Section 318 (cheating) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). These measures underscore the authorities' commitment to enforcing regulations that protect consumer interests and ensure public safety.
Kolar Focuses on Commercial Misuse of Domestic Cylinders
Simultaneously, in Kolar, officials have turned their attention to the misuse of domestic LPG cylinders in commercial settings. A joint raid conducted by the food department, city municipal council, and the tahsildar's office in Bangarpet resulted in the seizure of 22 domestic cylinders from nine eateries. These establishments were found using domestic cylinders for commercial cooking purposes, which is prohibited under existing regulations.
This comprehensive crackdown highlights the ongoing efforts to address the LPG shortage by targeting illegal activities that exacerbate supply issues. Authorities emphasize that such operations will continue to ensure compliance and safeguard against risks associated with improper handling and storage of gas cylinders.
