Hyderabad: In a major enforcement drive against violators, the Civil Supplies Department seized 3,699 domestic LPG cylinders and 70 small cylinders from across Telangana from March 12 to April 3.
According to official figures, the total value of seized items amounts to Rs 1.10 crore, which clearly indicates the magnitude of illegal diversion and usage of LPG cylinders in the state.
Legal action against violators was also taken, with 1,275 cases registered under Section 6A of the Essential Commodities Act, along with 216 FIRs during this drive.
Diversions to eateries
It has been repeatedly mentioned by authorities that LPG cylinders are illegally used for commercial purposes, such as in eateries, dhabas, etc., which is against the law.
It has been mentioned in government reports that LPG cylinders, which are provided at a subsidy for domestic use, are used for commercial purposes, such as in eateries or auto rickshaws, instead of for domestic purposes.
Recent instances of LPG cylinder seizures during raids for their misuse in hotels, food establishments, etc., are a clear indication of such a trend.
Hyderabad remains key LPG diversion hotspot
Even though the crackdown was launched across Telangana, Hyderabad remains a key hotspot for repeated instances of illegal storage, refilling, and unauthorised use of LPG cylinders.
According to officials, such practices not only affect genuine consumers of LPG for domestic use, but they are also risky from a safety perspective.
LPG cylinder price hiked
Commercial and domestic LPG prices were hiked in Hyderabad and other Indian cities, with a spike in global energy rates following the West Asia crisis, which weighed on the world’s third-largest energy consumer.
Following the recent hike, commercial LPG cylinders in Hyderabad cost Rs 2,320.50, while domestic cylinders are priced at Rs 965.
LPG scam alert issued
In the meantime, citizens have also been alerted about the increase in LPG booking scams.
Scammers attempt to steal people’s personal information as well as their bank details under the guise of gas agency representatives or booking agencies.
Citizens have been advised to book LPG cylinders only through the apps or websites of these agencies.
In case of any suspected scam, citizens can report immediately by calling 1967 or 100. Moreover, there are also official LPG helpline numbers available for emergencies at 1906.
