Rourkela: In the wake of a gas supply crisis reportedly triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, authorities in Odisha’s Rourkela city seized 161 LPG cylinders from a car garage, suspecting hoarding and black marketing.

The raid was carried out near Lugun Park in Sector 9 by a team from the Supply Department, led by supply officer Nihar Ranjan Mohapatra, following specific inputs from local residents.

Hoarding amid supply crunch

Officials said the cylinders were found stored inside a locked garage. The team had to break open the lock to access the premises and recover the cylinders. However, the identity of the person or entity responsible for stockpiling the cylinders is yet to be established.

The seizure comes at a time when many hotels and restaurants in the city are reportedly struggling due to a shortage of cooking gas.

Black marketing allegations

Sources alleged that some unscrupulous traders were taking advantage of the crisis by selling LPG cylinders at prices as high as three times the government-fixed rate.

Authorities suspect that the seized cylinders may have been part of such illegal activities aimed at profiteering during the shortage.

Investigation underway

An investigation has been launched to identify those behind the hoarding and to determine the supply chain through which the cylinders were procured and stored.

Officials have indicated that strict action will be taken against those found involved in black marketing and illegal storage of essential commodities.