Indore (Madhya Pradesh): In a major crackdown in connection with fire safety violations, a raid was conducted in the Sarafa Bazaar area, leading to the seizure of 27 gas cylinders being misused for jewellery-making.
District supply controller M L Maru said, “the joint investigation team, comprising officials from the Food and Civil Supplies Department, conducted a surprise inspection at Shop No 63, Kamla Tower, Bada Sarafa Bazaar.
It was discovered that the shop was illegally using domestic LPG cylinders for melting metals and manufacturing jewellery, posing a serious fire hazard in the densely populated market area.”
During the raid, officials seized one fully filled 19-kg cylinder, 17 partially filled 19-kg cylinders, and nine partially filled 14-kg cylinders. Additionally, the shop lacked fire extinguishers and essential fire safety equipment, further increasing the risk of a potential disaster.
Upon further inquiry, the shop owner was unable to produce valid storage permits for the gas cylinders.
As a result, all seized cylinders were confiscated, and a case was registered under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. Officials have warned that similar inspections will continue across the city to prevent illegal gas storage and misuse.
The Food and Civil Supply Department under the Indore district administration has launched a city-wide inspection drive against the illegal use of domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes.
Collector Asheesh Singh emphasised that fire safety violations will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against those endangering public safety. The district administration has urged businesses to adhere to legal storage guidelines to prevent potential fire incidents.
