4,816 Inspections Since March 12: Yogi-led UP govt takes strict action against black-marketers

The Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh administration continued to take strict action against LPG black-marketers on Monday, with enforcement teams successfully conducting and completing 4,816 inspections and raids conducted across the state since March 12 that led to 70 FIRs registered and 10 people arrested so far. Investigators said that 67 individuals are facing prosecution for suspected involvement in illegal LPG activities.

The UP government's action against black-marketers comes at a time when authorities are facing the menace of rising panic LPG bookings in different parts of the country in connection with the Middle East conflict.

Officials said that monitoring was tightened on 4,108 LPG distributors to ensure cooking gas refill deliveries in accordance with bookings. The state government has vowed to carry out regular reviews of LPG inventory levels, with the availability of cylinders being rigorously monitored.

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The state is maintaining strict oversight on implementation of the 20 per cent allocation for commercial LPG cylinders permitted by the central government. Earlier, the central government allowed allocation of up to 20 per cent of commercial cylinder consumption to maintain supply for businesses.

CM Yogi Adityanath orders strict enforcement against LPG black-marketers

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered strict enforcement of action against those indulging in black-marketing and hoarding activities.

The state government has ordered authorities to undertake strict measures to ensure a continuous availability of petrol, diesel and LPG across districts.

Enforcement agencies across the state are actively and continuously monitoring strict compliance to ensure smooth supplies, preventing black-marketing.

Yogi-led UP administration sets up 24-hour control rooms

The state government has set up 24-hour control rooms at the food commissioner's office and in all districts to closely monitor supply, with officials conducting regular field inspections to prevent LPG shortages and irregularities.

Officers and staff have been stationed in the home control room.

District supply officers and local administrative officials are regularly visiting the field to assess the situation and to ensure LPG reaches consumers without disruption.

'Don't panic-book LPG refills': Centre's appeal to public

Earlier on Saturday, the central government appealed to consumers to avoid panic booking of LPG cylinders, assuring that the national crude oil supply remains sufficient while refineries continue operating without disruptions.

Officials said the fuel distribution network is functioning at normal levels and current cooking gas supplies are adequate for immediate needs. They said several steps have been taken to improve the availability of LPG and piped natural gas (PNG) across different regions.

The Centre reiterated that it is closely monitoring developments in West Asia and maintaining coordination among the concerned ministries and agencies. Officials said that necessary stels are in place to safeguard energy supplies, ensure the safety of Indian nationals, maintain maritime operations and keep essential commodities available across the country.

Meanwhile, state-run energy giant GAIL held a meeting with city gas distribution operators to instruct them to accelerate the rollout of PNG connections to households. The measure is expected to reduce rising LPG demand and increase PNG usage in urban areas.

Panic booking surge puts pressure on supply network

Officials reported that total bookings rose from about 75 lakh to 88 lakh within a day, reflecting panic-booking by consumers amid fears of LPG shortages.

The central government has repeatedly urged citizens not to believe rumours about shortage. Around 84 per cent of bookings are currently being made through online platforms, according to officials.

The authorities also identified that unnecessary bulk booking by consumers is creating additional strain on the supply network. The essential sectors of the economy receive commercial LPG cylinder supplies as state governments consider these resources critical for their operations.

Crackdown against black-marketers

Enforcement agencies have conducted several rounds of operations to combat black market activities.

The officials said domestic LPG production has risen by almost 31 per cent, which will boost supply availability in the coming weeks.

Consumers need to follow booking guidelines to permit new cylinder bookings after 25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural regions to ensure fair distribution.

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is there a shortage of LPG supply in the country?

No. Officials have said crude oil supply and refinery production remain stable.

Why are authorities urging people not to indulge in panic-booking?

Panic-booking increases pressure on the fuel distribution network unnecessarily.

How much have LPG bookings increased recently?

Daily bookings have risen from around 75 lakh to nearly 88 lakh.

What kind of actions are being taken against black marketing?

Authorities are conducting raids and arresting those selling cylinders illegally.

Has domestic LPG production increased?

Yes.

What are the rules for booking a new LPG cylinder?

Consumers can book after 25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural areas.