LPG Shortage Concerns Rise Amid West Asia Crisis!

Amid the ongoing West Asia crisis, concerns over cooking gas availability are growing across India, with long queues forming outside LPG agencies in several cities. In many places, particularly in major urban centres like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, commercial LPG cylinders are reportedly being sold in the black market, forcing hotels and restaurants to temporarily shut down operations. Although the central government has assured that the country has sufficient reserves of crude oil and LPG, reports of shortages in some regions have triggered anxiety among consumers. As a result, several food establishments are now exploring alternative cooking options such as induction stoves and microwave ovens. Even religious institutions have begun to feel the impact; the well-known “Ram Rasoi” community kitchen at the Amava temple in Ayodhya has been temporarily closed due to the shortage.

In response to the situation, the central government has taken steps to prevent black-marketing and ensure equitable supply. The booking interval for domestic LPG cylinders has been increased from 21 days to 25 days, and a committee under the Ministry of Petroleum has been formed to review the supply of commercial cylinders. Authorities stated that domestic consumers will continue receiving cylinders within two-and-a-half days of booking. A high-level meeting chaired by Home Secretary Govind Mohan was also held to address the issue, with instructions to prioritise household consumers. Meanwhile, the Congress party has strongly criticised the government, alleging that it is concealing the true situation regarding LPG availability. Congress leaders staged a protest outside Parliament demanding a detailed discussion on the gas shortage.