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Mumbai cracks down on illegal LPG cylinder trade in major raids

From Govandi to Worli, officials dismantle a thriving black market for cooking gas. Will stricter penalties finally stop the exploitation of desperate buyers?

The image shows a paper with the text "Joseph Harris Wholesale Tea Dealer, No 14, Abchurch Lane,...
The image shows a paper with the text "Joseph Harris Wholesale Tea Dealer, No 14, Abchurch Lane, London" written on it.

Mumbai cracks down on illegal LPG cylinder trade in major raids

Mumbai's Food and Civil Supplies Department has stepped up action against the illegal trade of LPG cylinders. Recent raids in Govandi and Worli uncovered large-scale violations, leading to multiple seizures and legal action. Officials are targeting those selling domestic and commercial gas at inflated prices.

The first raid took place in Govandi, where authorities arrested Mohammad Farooq Shaikh, a gas delivery worker. He stands accused of purchasing cylinders at Rs3,100 each and reselling them to hotel owners for Rs3,300. During the operation, officials confiscated three cylinders, a tempo, and filed a case under the Essential Commodities Act.

A second raid in Worli uncovered a much larger stash of illegally traded LPG cylinders. The seized stock included a significant number of units from Super Gas and HP Gas. Combined, the two raids resulted in the recovery of 1,200 cylinders across Mumbai.

The crackdown highlights the department's push to curb black-market LPG sales. Those found guilty of overcharging or illegal distribution now face legal consequences. Officials have warned of further raids to prevent exploitation of essential fuel supplies.

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