Nagpur: In the backdrop of escalating tensions in West Asia and growing apprehensions over a possible LPG supply crunch, the Food and Civil Supplies Department has initiated a citywide inspection drive in Nagpur to prevent hoarding and illegal diversion of domestic gas cylinders.

Teams from the department have begun conducting surprise raids in different parts of the city, targeting LPG agencies, gas storage godowns, hotels and roadside eateries. The move is aimed at ensuring that subsidised domestic cylinders are not misused for commercial purposes and that sufficient stock is available for regular consumers.

In Civil Lines, officials carried out a detailed inquiry at a domestic gas agency, scrutinising booking data, stock registers and delivery records. Simultaneously, an inspection was undertaken at a gas godown located on the road between Jaripatka Police Station and the crematorium stretch, where cylinder inventory and safety compliance were verified.

Department sources clarified that there is no immediate shortage of LPG in Nagpur. However, considering India’s reliance on imported LPG and the uncertainty surrounding global energy supplies due to the West Asia conflict, precautionary monitoring has been strengthened.

Authorities have appealed to residents not to panic or resort to unnecessary bulk bookings. Consumers have also been urged to report cases of overcharging, artificial scarcity or refusal of delivery.

The inspection campaign will continue in the coming days, with officials conducting random checks to ensure uninterrupted LPG distribution and strict action against any irregularities in the supply chain.