Nashik & Sambhajinagar collectors review situation, act to avert LPG diversion & focus on households

Nashik/Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: The Nashik district administration has issued a stern warning against the misuse of domestic LPG cylinders for commercial activities, with flying squads put in place to conduct surprise checks at various locations.In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar city, hotels, restaurants and industrial units will need to depend on alternative fuel sources for now as the district administration has decided to reserve the LPG stock for domestic consumers and educational institutions amid the ongoing supply disruption. The decision was announced during a review meeting on Friday, chaired by Sambhajinagar collector Dileep Swami, to assess LPG shortage. Chamber of Marathwada industries and agriculture (CMIA) president Utsav Machar said that the industries are expecting clarity on the resuming of the supply chain, so that instead of abruptly shutting down the plants and incur hefty losses, we may plan maintenance and other stuff."While Aurangabad district hotels and restaurants owners association (ADHRA) president Shivaji Patil said that in the meeting said the restriction could significantly affect their daily functioning, particularly kitchen operations in hotels and restaurants that rely heavily on commercial LPG cylinders.During the meeting, Swami stated that the available LPG stock in the district will be prioritised for domestic consumers and educational institutions such as schools, hostels and colleges. Authorities said the move was necessary to ensure that household consumption and institutional needs are met during the current shortage.Officials also informed participants that, at this stage, hotels, restaurants and industries will not receive commercial LPG cylinders or LNG tanks through regular dealer distribution channels. Nashik collector Ayush Prasad said, "A district-level committee is closely monitoring the supply and distribution of domestic LPG cylinders across the district. Cylinders meant for household use must be delivered strictly to registered domestic consumers. Any diversion will result result in action against the distributor or the individuals involved."The collector clarified there was no shortage of LPG for domestic users in Nashik. "Officials have, however, noticed an unusual spike in demand in recent days. Oil marketing firms are adjusting their operations to meet this rising requirement using existing infrastructure and supply systems," he said.The district administration's flying squads will inspect hotels, restaurants, eateries, shops and other establishments to identify illegal use of domestic cylinders. Given the circumstances, the administration has ordered heightened surveillance over the movement and delivery of LPG cylinders.