Chhattisgarh cracks down on LPG misuse, 200 raids, over 1,000 cylinders seized

Raipur,UPDATED: Mar 19, 2026 13:10 IST

The Chhattisgarh government has intensified its crackdown on the misuse of domestic LPG cylinders, seizing more than 1,000 cylinders during over 200 raids conducted across the state. Officials said the highest number of seizures was reported from Raipur district.

According to the food department, a total of 1,013 LPG cylinders have been confiscated so far during 214 raids carried out to prevent illegal use of domestic cooking gas for commercial purposes. Raipur alone accounted for 392 seized cylinders, followed by Bilaspur with 201.

Authorities said the action was taken to ensure uninterrupted supply of domestic LPG to genuine consumers and to stop diversion of subsidised cylinders to hotels, commercial establishments, and other unauthorised users.

The crackdown was reviewed in a meeting chaired by Food Secretary Reena Babasaheb Kangale, which was attended by senior officials of the department and representatives of oil companies. The secretary directed officials to increase monitoring and ensure that LPG distribution remains smooth across all districts.

Officials also decided to publicise multiple booking options, including mobile numbers, WhatsApp, IVRS, and online platforms, to make refilling easier for consumers.

To maintain balance in supply, the state has introduced a priority-based distribution system for commercial LPG in line with Union government guidelines. Essential services such as hospitals, educational institutions, military and paramilitary units, jails, railway stations, and airport canteens will receive gas supply as per their monthly requirements.

For government offices, guest houses, public sector units, and commercial establishments, LPG supply will be restricted to a fixed percentage of previous consumption to prevent shortages.

The food department has also kept its toll-free complaint numbers active and said that grievances related to LPG booking and supply are being resolved on priority in coordination with oil companies.

Officials said the drive will continue in the coming days to ensure that domestic consumers do not face shortage of cooking gas.

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