In a major crackdown on the gas agencies involved in the sale of underweight LPG cylinders, the Directorate of Civil Supplies reportedly seized over 1,000 cylinders during a raid at Sancoale. It is learnt that several cylinders were found unsealed. There is a complete ban on sale or distribution of LPG cylinders below or in excess of standard weight under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. Those involved were allegedly carrying out illegal LPG decanting. Decanting for the purpose of theft is unacceptable and the culprits need to be booked. It is learnt that an FIR has been lodged against those involved. Distribution of underweight LPG cylinders means that the consumer is getting less of cooking gas for the price paid. This amounts to cheating. It would be in the fitness of things for the consumer to weigh the LPG cylinder when it is delivered at their doorsteps. But then, all consumers may not possess a weighing machine. Hence it would be prudent for every delivery van supplying LPG cylinders to carry an electronic weighing machine. The consumer should ensure that the weight of the cylinder is as per specification.
