FCS&CA officials, along with Tehsildar Thathri, carried out surprise inspections at various tea stalls in Thathri town of Doda district on February 7, 2026. Six tea stalls were found using domestic LPG cylinders instead of the required commercial ones.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, a fine of ₹2,500 was imposed on each defaulter, resulting in a total fine of ₹15,000. The erring shopkeepers have been directed to deposit the fine amount by Monday. Authorities reminded all commercial establishments, including restaurants, tea stalls and hotels, to use only commercial LPG cylinders, warning that non-compliance would lead to higher penalties and strict legal action.
This latest action follows a similar inspection in Thathri earlier this week, where establishments faced fines for the same violation, underscoring ongoing efforts to enforce LPG usage norms in the region. Domestic LPG cylinders, subsidised for household use under government schemes, are not permitted for commercial kitchens due to higher consumption rates and to prevent diversion of subsidised supplies meant for vulnerable families.
Thathri, located in the Chenab Valley of Doda district in the Jammu division of Jammu and Kashmir, functions as an important local market and transit point along key routes connecting Jammu to higher-altitude areas such as Kishtwar. The town hosts numerous small tea stalls and eateries that serve residents, commuters and tourists, making compliance with commercial fuel regulations essential for fair distribution of subsidised resources and public safety.
The use of domestic cylinders in commercial settings contravenes guidelines from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Oil Marketing Companies, which mandate commercial connections—typically in larger 19 kg cylinders—for businesses. Such misuse can lead to safety hazards in high-volume cooking environments and depletes the subsidised quota available to low-income households.
Officials have intensified market surveillance across Jammu and Kashmir to address misuse of essential commodities, including LPG, ration items and other subsidised goods. In Doda district and the broader Chenab Valley, joint teams frequently conduct checks to curb irregularities like overpricing, adulteration and improper cylinder usage. Previous drives have resulted in seizures, fines and warnings to ensure adherence to the Essential Commodities Act and related rules.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
