Key Takeaways:

• 17 LPG dealers inspected in Gaur, Garuda and Chandrapur
• Reduced supplies found, but no evidence of black marketing
• Dealers warned against artificial shortages and hoarding
• Team included police, APF, NID and administration officials

RAUTAHAT, AUGUST 10 The Rautahat administration launched surprise inspections of 17 LPG gas dealers on Sunday amid a nationwide shortage of cooking gas, finding reduced supplies in the district but no evidence of black marketing so far. A team led by Chief District Officer Dinesh Sagar Bhusal inspected gas outlets and storage facilities in Gaur, Garuda and Chandrapur to assess stocks, distribution arrangements and consumer access. The administration warned dealers against creating artificial shortages or engaging in black marketing by citing supply constraints. It also urged consumers not to stockpile cylinders beyond their immediate needs. 'We will take strict action against anyone found involved in black marketing,' Bhusal said, while directing dealers to maintain regular and accessible supplies. According to the administration, the inspections focused on available stocks, distribution practices and whether consumers were able to obtain LPG conveniently. The inspection team included Rautahat Chief of Police SP Sitaram Rijal, Armed Police Force SP Ramhari Adhikari, National Investigation Department Deputy Secretary Kumar Budhathoki and administrative officer Manibhushan Sah, among others. Ramnaresh Sah, head of the administration section at the District Administration Office, said the team also examined the quantity of gas available with dealers and their distribution arrangements.