In a concerning event from Palsadev village near Indapur, reports have surfaced of widespread unauthorized use of domestic Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders as fuel for vehicles. This practice, which circumvents legal and safety norms, has raised serious questions about administrative oversight and public safety in the region.
Traditionally, vehicles running on LPG use specially designed automotive LPG cylinders and conversion kits that meet stringent safety standards. However, in Palsadev, locals have reportedly begun retrofitting vehicles to run on domestic LPG cylinders—those intended solely for household cooking purposes. This unauthorized use is driven by the high cost of conventional fuels and the perceived economic benefits of using cheaper domestic LPG.
Despite the availability of authorized LPG conversion services in Indapur and surrounding areas, as listed by local service providers, the illegal practice persists, often facilitated by unregulated workshops that modify vehicles without adhering to safety protocols.
Using domestic LPG cylinders in vehicles is fraught with dangers. These cylinders are not designed to withstand the vibrations, pressure changes, and temperature variations typical in automotive use, significantly increasing the risk of leaks, explosions, and fatal accidents. Furthermore, such conversions violate safety regulations and government guidelines governing automotive fuel systems.
Local residents and safety experts warn that this practice endangers not only the vehicle occupants but also pedestrians and nearby properties. The lack of proper certification and inspection of these modified vehicles further compounds the hazards.
The persistence of this illegal practice points to a lack of effective monitoring and enforcement by local authorities. Residents of Palsadev have voiced concerns about the apparent administrative neglect, urging the district administration and transport department to take immediate action to curb the misuse of domestic LPG cylinders.
Indapur hosts several authorized LPG conversion kit repair and installation services, offering safer and government-approved alternatives for vehicle owners interested in switching to LPG fuel. These services ensure compliance with safety standards and provide regular maintenance support, reducing the risk of accidents.