Bhubaneswar, Aug 12: The Odisha Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department has intensified its statewide enforcement drive against the illegal stockpiling and black-marketing of LPG cylinders, with thousands of inspections conducted across the state.

According to an update shared by the department on its official X account on Wednesday, enforcement teams have so far carried out raids and inspections at 3,792 locations across Odisha. During these operations, officials seized 8,208 LPG cylinders suspected to have been illegally stored or diverted from the regular supply chain.

The crackdown has also resulted in legal action against those allegedly involved in unauthorised stocking and black-marketing. The department said 46 FIRs have been registered in connection with the violations. Besides, 492 cases have been booked under the Essential Commodities Act, while nine persons have been arrested so far.

The intensified enforcement comes with the objective of preventing hoarding, illegal trading and diversion of domestic LPG cylinders, particularly amid concerns over their availability to genuine consumers.

The department has directed enforcement teams to maintain strict surveillance and take action against violations. Officials have also stressed the need to ensure that domestic LPG reaches legitimate consumers without disruption.

The statewide drive is expected to continue, with authorities monitoring supply channels and conducting inspections at vulnerable locations.

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