The district administration appears to be in a stupor when it comes to taking action against those in the illegal business of small cylinders despite a death in the city on Sunday.

In October, the Bihar government had allowed the sale of 5kg LPG cylinders that were banned after the Bodhgaya serial blasts. Unlicensed small cylinders were used in triggering the blasts. Ever since the state government approved the sale of 5kg cylinders, two accidents have occurred.

Sunday's incident, where a 42-year-old woman was killed when an LPG cylinder exploded at her rented accommodation at Keshari Nagar, has once again raised doubts on the government's approval on such small cylinders.

Hundreds of illegal shops refilling small cylinders from regular domestic cooking gas cylinders have mushroomed in Patna.

Such illegal business of refilling cylinders is thriving under the nose of the administration in areas like Civil Lines and Sabzibag.

Asked about taking action against such shops, food and consumer protection minister Shyam Rajak said: 'I have directed all district magistrates and superintendents of police to conduct surprise raids in their respective districts. I have also instructed oil companies to take action against such gas agencies where illegal refilling has been going on in their respective areas. We can only give direction to the official concerned but cannot take action. It is up to the police and the oil company.'?

Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) official said they conduct raids to check illegal refilling and manufacturing of cylinders when they are provided proper police protection.

Arun Prasad, the chief area manager of IOCL-Patna, said: 'It is a racket and the people involved in the business are mostly criminals. We do conduct raids when provided with proper police protection but it does not happen all the time. Recently, we carried out raids near the airport but a tailored drive needs to be initiated to deal with the problem and it can only happen when the police cooperate.'