New Delhi, March 14 (NationPress) In a significant operation, authorities in Chhattisgarh confiscated 741 LPG cylinders from 102 different sites across the state on Saturday. This initiative is a response to escalating concerns over hoarding and black marketing of cooking gas, particularly amidst the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.

Officials reported that teams from the state Food Department, in collaboration with district administrative authorities, have been conducting surprise inspections at suspected storage areas to thwart illegal hoarding of domestic LPG cylinders.

The inspections aim to guarantee a steady supply of cooking gas to consumers while preventing unscrupulous traders from exploiting the international crisis.

An official announcement made on Friday indicated that the raids were executed across various districts following reports that certain traders were illegally accumulating LPG cylinders in anticipation of supply shortages and inflated prices.

“As of now, 741 cylinders have been seized from 102 locations statewide,” the statement noted.

The largest number of seizures occurred in Raipur, where authorities confiscated 392 domestic LPG cylinders during multiple checks. This was closely followed by Bilaspur, where 130 cylinders were seized during enforcement actions.

Officials stated that numerous inspections were conducted at warehouses, retail outlets, and other suspected storage facilities where cylinders were reportedly being hoarded. Authorities have warned that stringent legal measures will be taken against individuals found engaging in illegal stocking, diversion, or black marketing of LPG cylinders.

The administration has also encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities related to LPG supply or illegal sales so that prompt action can be initiated. Officials stressed that hoarding essential goods such as cooking gas during uncertain times can lead to artificial shortages and disrupt public convenience.

In a related incident, a similar case of LPG black marketing was exposed in Mumbai earlier in the day, where officials conducted a raid in the Worli locality and seized a substantial number of illegally stored gas cylinders. Authorities discovered that these cylinders were purportedly being stored and refilled unlawfully before being sold at inflated prices in the black market.

Police have registered a case regarding this incident and have seized the cylinders along with a transport vehicle, while further investigations are ongoing. Authorities across various states have intensified surveillance to prevent such illegal practices and ensure the safe and equitable distribution of LPG cylinders.