BALLARI: Amid an acute shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, the hotel industry in Ballari is facing mounting pressure, with several establishments struggling to sustain operations. Taking advantage of the crisis, an illegal network allegedly began selling LPG cylinders at exorbitant prices, prompting swift police action.
Ballari police raided a house in Gautam Nagar where black marketing of LPG cylinders was reportedly underway. During the operation, officials seized five commercial cylinders and four domestic-use cylinders that were being sold unlawfully.
The accused, identified as Gangaraj (44), was taken into custody from the premises. Preliminary investigations revealed that domestic LPG cylinders were being sold for Rs 2,000, while commercial cylinders were priced as high as Rs 4,000, nearly double the government-prescribed rates.
Police sources said the accused had been exploiting the ongoing supply crunch to make quick profits, targeting small hotels and eateries hit hardest by the shortage. Authorities have intensified surveillance across the city to curb such illegal activities and ensure the fair distribution of essential commodities.
WOMAN SUFFERS BURNS AS FUEL STORED AT HOME CATCHES FIRE
Dharwad: A 32-year-old woman from Dharwad district suffered burns after petrol stored in the house caught fire when she lit the gas stove. Identified as Poornima, the victim was rescued by a neighbour, and is currently under treatment. The fuel was stored following rumours of an impending shortage in the wake of the West Asia crisis. Police said around 10 litres of petrol was kept near the fridge, and the container was not airtight, leading to fumes spreading inside the house.