Despite Government Assurances, People Panic Fearing LPG Shortage

Lucknow/New Delhi, March 13 (TNA) India faces mounting concerns over LPG cylinder availability, particularly for commercial use, as disruptions hit restaurants and hotels in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Chennai, prompting panic buying and temporary shutdowns.

The government has prioritised household supplies, assuring that domestic 14.2 kg cylinders will be delivered within 2-5 days of booking despite global tensions from the Iran conflict and West Asia war, with officials like Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma urging calm as stocks remain stable.

Commercial 19 kg cylinders, however, face irregular supplies, leading to spikes in induction cooktop sales in Delhi-NCR and complaints from eateries; prices recently hiked-14.2 kg at ₹913 in Delhi (up ₹60 on March 7) and 19 kg at ₹1,883 (up ₹114.5). PM Modi and the Petroleum Ministry have activated round-the-clock monitoring, directed states to curb hoarding and rumours, and boosted production at refineries, while Goa reports only 15 days’ stock left but expects refills.

Consumers in Lucknow and other Uttar Pradesh cities report no major domestic shortages yet, but hospitality sectors brace for longer gaps; the Centre increased booking intervals to 25 days for demand control, absorbing cost rises to shield households. Authorities warn against speculation, confirming crude and LPG imports are secure despite Gulf risks.