Sri Vijaya Puram, May 3: In a major crackdown on the illegal hoarding and unsafe storage of essential commodities, the Enforcement Team of the Department of Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs conducted a surprise inspection on April 25, 2026 at residential premises in Bimblitan village, under Sippighat Panchayat, South Andaman.
The joint operation, carried out in close coordination with officials from Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and the Andaman and Nicobar Police Department, led to the discovery of a massive stockpile of LPG cylinders. A total of 140 cylinders (both filled and empty) were found stored in an unauthorized and hazardous manner within the residential area.
This act constitutes a direct violation of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, and posed a severe threat to public safety and the surrounding neighborhood.
The seized cylinders have been successfully shifted to an authorized LPG storage facility for safe custody. Following the seizure, appropriate legal proceedings have been initiated against the individuals involved under the relevant provisions of the law.
The Administration reiterates its zero-tolerance policy toward the illegal storage and misuse of LPG. Such activities not only disrupt the supply chain but also risk lives due to the volatile nature of the commodity.
The public are requested to ensure that LPG cylinders are handled and stored strictly according to prescribed safety norms, refrain from engaging in or supporting unauthorized hoarding and report any suspicious or illegal activities to the authorities immediately.
A dedicated 24×7 Control Room has been established at the Directorate of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs to address LPG-related complaints and reports of malpractice. Citizens may report incidents for prompt action through the following channels:
•Toll-Free Number: 1800-345-3197
•Telephone Number: 03192-230337