LPG Cylinder Shortage Triggers Panic Across India: Govt Says Household Supply Safe
Concerns over a possible LPG cylinder shortage have triggered panic buying and disruptions across several Indian cities, affecting restaurants, hostels, canteens and catering services.
However, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has assured citizens that domestic LPG supplies remain secure and there is no immediate threat to household consumers.
The supply disruptions are largely impacting commercial LPG cylinders, which are widely used by restaurants, hotels, hostels and catering businesses.
The shortage has already started affecting daily operations in many places. In Delhi, the lawyers’ canteen at the Delhi High Court reportedly had to stop serving main course meals because of a lack of cooking gas, offering only light snacks and refreshments.
In Hyderabad, several hostels have removed gas-intensive dishes such as rajma and chickpea curries from their menus to conserve fuel. Many tea stalls and eateries have also begun rationing tea and coffee.
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Meanwhile, in Pune, a number of restaurants temporarily shut down as the LPG shortage continued for a second consecutive day.
Industry bodies say the crisis highlights how vulnerable India’s food service sector is to disruptions in global energy supply.
The shortage could soon impact wedding celebrations as well. Wedding planners in the Delhi-NCR region have warned that catering costs may rise by 10–20% if the LPG supply disruption continues.
Large wedding feasts depend heavily on commercial LPG cylinders for cooking large quantities of food. Vendors organising big events say the uncertainty over gas supply is already causing concern.
With gas supplies becoming irregular, several establishments are exploring alternative cooking options.
Restaurants and catering units are experimenting with coal, firewood, biogas and electric cooking systems. Some railway catering units have even been advised to use induction cooktops and microwave ovens to continue operations.
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Retailers in Delhi have also reported a sudden surge in demand for electric cooking appliances such as induction stoves and infrared cooktops.
In Kerala, some hotels have reported disruptions due to irregular supply of commercial LPG cylinders. A few residents have also said they are facing difficulties while booking cylinders, raising concerns despite official assurances of adequate stock.
Despite the disruptions, the government has urged citizens not to panic.
Speaking on the issue, Sujata Sharma said India imports nearly 60% of its LPG, and around 90% of those imports come through the Strait of Hormuz, making the supply chain vulnerable to geopolitical tensions.
Officials noted that about 50 lakh LPG cylinders are delivered daily across the country, and no major dry-out of domestic supply has been reported so far.
Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said LPG production has been increased by nearly 28% to stabilise the supply.
He emphasised that the government’s top priority is to ensure that India’s 33 crore households continue receiving cooking gas without disruption.
For now, available LPG is being directed mainly toward domestic users, while commercial supplies are being restricted. Essential services such as hospitals and educational institutions are being prioritised.
Authorities have also warned against panic buying and black marketing of cylinders.
In Delhi, police have deployed personnel near LPG distribution agencies to ensure smooth supply and prevent illegal sales. Reports have emerged of cylinders being sold in the black market for ₹3,000 to ₹4,500, significantly higher than the usual price.
Police officials said strict action will be taken against anyone involved in illegal refilling or hoarding of LPG cylinders.
The supply concerns come amid escalating tensions in West Asia, which have affected global energy markets. The government said two LNG cargo shipments are currently on their way to India to help stabilise supply.
Officials maintain that petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel and kerosene supplies remain fully stable, and there is no shortage of these fuels.
While some regions are experiencing delays in bookings and deliveries, authorities continue to stress that there is adequate stock for household consumers.
(With inputs from TOI)
