Thane makes commercial gas cylinders mandatory for Ganeshotsav feasts

Thane district administration has mandated the exclusive use of commercial LPG cylinders for cooking Mahaprasad and community meals at public Ganeshotsav events, citing fire safety and prevention of domestic cylinder misuse.

Assistant District Supply Officer Yogesh Jangle issued directives to all tehsildars to enforce compliance among Ganesh Mandals. Authorities said domestic cylinders are unsafe for heavy continuous cooking due to differing pressure and burner design, and their use violates the Essential Commodities Act, inviting criminal charges. Insurance claims will also be rejected in accidents involving illegal gas use.

The mandatory commercial cylinder clause will now be included in all event licences and tent permits issued by municipal bodies and the police. Nitin Solanke of the Consumer Vigilance Welfare Foundation welcomed the move, urging all mandals to strictly follow the law.