authorities in Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, have launched an extensive campaign to curb the illegal sale and black marketing of LPG cylinders. The large-scale enforcement drive comes amid complaints from residents about shortages and irregular supply of cooking gas.
Joint teams from the Food and Civil Supplies Department and the district administration carried out coordinated raids across the city, inspecting hundreds of locations suspected of involvement in the illegal trade.
Large-Scale Raids Across the City
According to officials, the operation was conducted on Friday as part of a broader initiative to ensure the uninterrupted supply of LPG cylinders to consumers.
During the campaign, enforcement teams raided 1,483 locations across the city. The inspections targeted gas agencies, storage warehouses, and several other sites where illegal trading of LPG cylinders was suspected.
Authorities registered 24 First Information Reports (FIRs) during the operation. Of these, four cases were filed against LPG distributors, while 20 cases were lodged against individuals allegedly involved in the unlawful purchase and sale of cylinders.
The action was taken under the direction of Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, who has instructed officials to closely monitor the supply of LPG as well as petrol and diesel across the state. The directive aims to prevent any disruptions or artificial shortages in essential fuels.
Arrests Made During Enforcement Drive
Officials confirmed that six suspects were arrested on the spot during the raids. In addition, legal action has been initiated against 19 other individuals believed to be involved in the illegal trade.
Authorities said investigations are ongoing, and further strict measures will be taken if additional violations are uncovered.
The administration emphasized that the campaign is intended not only to punish those responsible for black marketing but also to restore confidence among consumers who depend on regular LPG supplies for their daily needs.
Government Says Cylinder Supply Is Adequate
In an official statement, the state government maintained that there is no shortage of LPG cylinders in Uttar Pradesh.
According to the statement, 4,108 LPG distributors are currently operating across the state and supplying cylinders to consumers based on their bookings. Officials insisted that distributors have sufficient stock to meet demand.
The government also stated that Uttar Pradesh is the first state to take such strict action against black marketing in the current situation. Authorities have made it clear that any irregularities in the LPG supply chain will not be tolerated.
Continuous Monitoring of LPG Distribution
Officials said the administration is maintaining constant oversight of LPG distribution to ensure that residents do not face difficulties in accessing cooking gas.
Monitoring mechanisms have been strengthened at both the state and district levels. If complaints related to black marketing or supply irregularities are received, authorities have pledged to act immediately.
The administration believes that such strict enforcement measures will help prevent illegal practices and maintain a smooth supply of essential fuels.
24-Hour Control Rooms Set Up for Complaints
To improve monitoring and address public concerns quickly, the government has set up a 24-hour control room at the office of the Food Commissioner.
Officials from the Food and Logistics Department have been deployed there to track LPG supply across the state and respond to complaints without delay.
In addition, district-level control rooms have been established throughout Uttar Pradesh to monitor the availability and distribution of LPG cylinders more closely.
Public Asked to Report Illegal Activities
The administration has also urged citizens to remain vigilant. Residents have been encouraged to report any instances of LPG cylinder black marketing or illegal sales to the authorities immediately.
Officials say strict legal action will continue against anyone found violating supply regulations.
With these intensified enforcement efforts, authorities hope to ensure that LPG cylinders reach households fairly and without disruption—while putting an end to the illegal networks that attempt to exploit shortages for profit.
