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Kolkata Police Crack Down on LPG Black Marketing Amid Supply Fears

Kolkata Police have intensified city-wide surveillance to curb the black marketing of cooking gas cylinders. The move follows an emergency meeting by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with LPG dealers to review supply. Police are checking godowns, verifying records, and preventing the diversion or illegal sale of cylinders. Authorities warn of strict action against illegal storage or trade, while police barracks are adopting induction cookers to reduce LPG dependence.

Key Points: Kolkata Police Vigilance Against LPG Black Marketing

  • Police stations on high alert
  • Monitoring LPG stock & supply chain
  • Focus on preventing hoarding & inflated prices
  • Barracks adopting alternative cooking methods
2 min read

Kolkata Police step up vigil to curb black marketing of cooking gas

Kolkata Police increase city-wide checks on LPG cylinders to prevent hoarding and black marketing amid potential supply disruptions from West Asia tensions.

"strict action will be taken against anyone found illegally storing or trading in LPG cylinders - Police Officials"

Kolkata, March 12

Kolkata Police have stepped up vigil across the city to prevent black marketing of cooking gas amid concerns over possible supply disruptions due to tensions in West Asia, a senior police officer said on Thursday.

All police stations in the city have been asked to maintain strict vigilance and monitor the movement and distribution of LPG cylinders. The police have also decided to adopt alternative cooking arrangements, such as induction cookers and microwave ovens in police barracks, to deal with any potential shortage of commercial cooking gas.

The decision by the city police headquarters at Lalbazar came a day after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held an emergency meeting with LPG dealers to review the supply situation in the state.

During the meeting, CM Banerjee directed LPG dealers to prepare a standard operating procedure (SOP) detailing the available LPG stock and ensure that no black marketing of cylinders takes place.

Police officials said the focus is on preventing hoarding and illegal sale of cooking gas to avoid any crisis in Kolkata. Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of all divisions have been instructed to closely monitor the situation and ensure that police stations under their jurisdiction keep a strict watch.

Officers of the Enforcement Branch of Kolkata Police have also been tasked with monitoring the supply chain. Special attention is being paid to gas cylinder godowns across the city, where police teams are checking stock levels and verifying records.

Police are also keeping watch to ensure that LPG cylinders are not being diverted beyond authorised customer orders or sold at inflated prices. Authorities are additionally monitoring whether domestic LPG cylinders are being illegally used for commercial purposes.

Officials have warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found illegally storing or trading in LPG cylinders.

In the past, police have busted several gangs involved in taking out gas from domestic cylinders and refilling smaller cylinders for illegal sale or use in transport vehicles. Police said they are keeping a close watch on such rackets.

At the same time, police barracks are also being monitored and instructed to adopt alternative cooking methods where necessary to reduce dependence on LPG.

Concerns over supply disruptions have grown amid escalating tensions in West Asia.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Good step, but the real test is implementation. These rackets are very well organized. Police need to go after the big fish supplying the cylinders, not just the small vendors on the street. Also, what about the corruption angle? Are they checking if some officers are involved?
A
Aman W
The part about police barracks using induction cookers is smart. Lead by example. If every government office and police quarter did this, the pressure on domestic LPG would reduce. We common people should also think about using alternatives more often. It's better for the environment too.
S
Sarah B
Living in Kolkata, I appreciate this proactive approach. The geopolitical tensions are worrying, and securing essential supplies is key. Hope other states take similar measures. The focus on verifying records at godowns is crucial—that's where the leakage often happens.
V
Vikram M
Finally! These gas mafias operate in broad daylight. Last week, a neighbour got a cylinder for almost double the price because the dealer said there was a "shortage". Strict action is the only language these black marketers understand. Kudos to Didi for taking this up personally.
N
Nikhil C
While the intent is good, I have a respectful criticism. Instead of reactive policing, we need a systemic solution. Why is there always a panic with supply? Our energy security planning needs to be stronger. Also, promoting PNG connections in more areas would solve this long-term.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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