Government Intensifies Raids to Combat LPG Hoarding and Black Marketing
Synopsis
The government is ramping up efforts to combat the hoarding and black market trading of LPG, with over 3,500 raids conducted nationwide. Citizens are urged to rely on official sources and avoid panic bookings.
Key Takeaways
Ongoing raids to combat LPG hoarding and black marketing.
1,400 cylinders seized in various states.
Government prioritizes LPG and PNG for essential services.
Increased bookings for LPG from urban to rural areas.
Citizens advised to use digital platforms for bookings.
New Delhi, March 21 (NationPress) The authorities have announced that operations are ongoing across various states and Union Territories (UTs) to combat the hoarding and illicit trading of LPG.
To date, over 3,500 operations have been executed, resulting in the confiscation of approximately 1,400 cylinders in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra.
“We urge all State and UT governments to conduct regular inspections to curb hoarding and black market activities,” stated the Ministry of Petroleum.
Officials from public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs) have executed surprise evaluations at more than 2,000 retail outlets and LPG distribution centers nationwide to ensure consistent supply and address any hoarding or black marketing concerns.
In light of the current situation, the government has prioritized the distribution of domestic LPG and PNG, particularly to hospitals and educational institutions.
“Several measures have been implemented to rationalize both supply and demand, including boosting refinery output, extending the booking interval from 21 to 25 days in urban regions and up to 45 days in rural areas, and prioritizing supply sectors,” the ministry noted.
To alleviate the demand pressure on LPG, alternative fuels like kerosene and coal have been provided. An additional allocation of 48,000 KL of kerosene has been granted to all states and UTs, exceeding regular distributions.
States and UTs are encouraged to designate specific district locations for kerosene distribution.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Coal has mandated Coal India and Singareni Collieries to provide increased coal quantities for distribution to small and medium consumers.
States are also advised to facilitate the installation of new PNG connections for both residential and commercial users. A proposal for a 10% increase in commercial LPG allocation has been suggested for states that expedite this process.
“The government is committed to ensuring the uninterrupted availability and delivery of LPG cylinders to households; citizens are encouraged to rely solely on official sources and to avoid spreading rumors. We request citizens to refrain from panic bookings, utilize digital platforms for LPG orders, and avoid visiting distribution centers; home delivery of cylinders will be guaranteed,” concluded the official statement.
Point of View
The government's actions reflect a determined effort to maintain the integrity of LPG distribution amid rising concerns of black marketing. This proactive approach is essential for safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring that essential services remain accessible.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is the government taking against LPG black marketing?
The government is conducting extensive raids and inspections across various states to combat LPG black marketing and hoarding.
How many LPG cylinders have been seized?
Approximately 1,400 LPG cylinders have been confiscated during over 3,500 raids conducted nationwide.
What alternative fuel options are being offered?
To alleviate the pressure on LPG, alternative fuels such as kerosene and coal are being provided to consumers.
How can citizens ensure they receive LPG supplies?
Citizens are advised to rely only on official sources for LPG and to avoid panic bookings, opting for digital methods for orders.
What priority is given to hospitals and educational institutions?
The government has prioritized the supply of domestic LPG and PNG to hospitals and educational institutions.
