Lucknow, 11

March (HS): The Uttar Pradesh government has alerted authorities against

churning rumours mills gaining traction and probable black marketing of fuel,

diesel, and LPG, with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asking officials to

maintain close surveillance and prosecution against offenders in the state. District

administrations and supply department teams conducted inspections and raids

from Noida to Gorakhpur on Wednesday, according to authorities. Enforcement

teams and magistrates conducted inspections at gas pumps and LPG providers,

including those in Gautam Buddh Nagar, to avoid black marketing and guarantee

normal sales, according to officials. Long lines of customers were seen outside

various gas stations, including Lucknow, as they waited for LPG cylinders.

The increased

scrutiny comes amid fears sparked by ongoing tensions in West Asia, which have

resulted in panic purchasing in certain locations, officials said. Authorities

claimed rumors about a potential interruption in fuel supplies had spurred

worried consumers to hurry for refills. The minimum waiting period for home LPG

cylinder refills has been extended from 21 to 25 days, according to

authorities, who added that the situation is being continuously watched to

prevent stockpiling and black marketing.

However,

authorities underlined that there was no need to fear and that the situation

was being properly watched. There is no room or need to panic. The needy are

the government's top concern, according to a senior official, who also stated

that anyone discovered engaging in black marketing will face severe

consequences.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi