LPG Crisis in India News Live Update: Govt says petrol, diesel stocks adequate, no dry-outs at LPG agencies

LPG Crisis in India: Govt orders crackdown on LPG hoarding, calls for PNG expansion

Bihar Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit on Monday chaired the first high-level meeting of the Crisis Management Group (CMG), directing officials to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities and services across Bihar, take strict action against hoarding and black marketing of LPG, and safeguard the interests of migrant workers. He also stressed the need to expedite Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections across the state and expressed strong displeasure over zero progress in 14 districts.

The 90-minute meeting was attended by the development commissioner, additional chief secretary (home), director general of police, and principal secretary- and secretary-level officers from various departments. In-charge secretaries of all districts, district magistrates (DMs), superintendents of police (SPs), and divisional commissioners joined via video conferencing. Representatives of major oil companies were also present. The food and consumer protection department has been designated as the nodal department for the CMG.

Amrit said the CMG would now meet every Monday and laid particular emphasis on accelerating PNG connections across Bihar. During the review, the food and consumer protection department informed through a presentation that 60% of commercial demand is currently being met.

It was stated that a target of 3,68,783 household PNG connections has been set in Bihar. Of these, pipelines have reached pockets covering 2,30,939 households, but connections are yet to be provided. A total of 31,458 households are ready for charging, with pipelines already laid but supply yet to begin. At present, 96,474 households are using PNG in the state.

The chief secretary expressed strong displeasure over zero progress in 14 districts and directed the concerned district magistrates and superintendents of police to coordinate with the food and consumer protection department and prepare an immediate action plan.

A detailed review of the backlog in LPG cylinder supply was also conducted. Higher backlogs were reported in West Champaran, Bhojpur, Gaya, Darbhanga, Nalanda, Rohtas, Muzaffarpur, Saran, Vaishali, Begusarai, Bhagalpur, East Champaran, Jehanabad and Jamui.

LPG Crisis in India News Live: Sikkim govt sets up control rooms in all districts to regulate LPG cylinder distribution

The Sikkim government has set up control rooms in all six districts to regulate the distribution of LPG cylinders across the state, officials said on Monday.

A notification issued by Food and Civil Supplies Secretary Devariya Bardhan said that in view of the prevailing geopolitical situation affecting LPG availability, there is a need for effective monitoring, better coordination, and timely redressal of public grievances related to cooking gas supply.

Accordingly, control rooms have been established at both the state level and in all six districts to oversee the distribution of cooking gas cylinders, the notification said.

Under the new system, domestic LPG distribution will follow a regulated refill schedule—once every 25 days in urban areas and once every 45 days in rural areas. For commercial LPG, priority will be given to hospitals and educational institutions.

The control rooms will operate round the clock and will have dedicated helpline numbers for public access.

Authorities have been directed to curb hoarding, black marketing, and panic buying of cooking gas cylinders.

All complaints related to LPG shortages, overcharging, or malpractice will be addressed promptly, and strict action will be taken against violators, the notification said.

The arrangement for monitoring and regulating LPG cylinder distribution will remain in force until further orders.

LPG Crisis in India News Live: Odisha CM discusses supply of essential commodities with district collectors, directs market monitoring

Odisha chief minister Mohan Majhi on Monday held a virtual meeting with district collectors to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities amid the West Asia conflict.

According to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), he directed enforcement squads to remain on 24x7 alert, keep a close watch on markets, act against hoarders and rumour-mongers, and maintain coordination for effective crisis management.

Earlier in the day, the Union government said that 100 per cent supply of natural gas is being maintained for domestic consumers and CNG transport, adding that around 95 per cent of LPG bookings were made online on the previous day.

Addressing a joint inter-ministerial briefing, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing and Oil Refinery) in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said the country has adequate fuel reserves to meet current demand.

"Our refineries are in normal operation, and crude inventories are adequate. Some retail outlets are in normal operation, but panic buying is also observed in some retail outlets. In this regard, I would like to tell the people of the country that petrol and diesel are available in sufficient quantities with us," Sharma said.

She said the government has taken several measures to maintain domestic stability, including reducing excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 and imposing export taxes to ensure availability of diesel and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) in the domestic market.

Sharma also highlighted the expansion of the Piped Natural Gas (PNG) network, noting that several central ministries, including the Ministry of Defence, have issued orders to support its rollout in residential areas and unit lines.

She added that a gazette notification was issued on March 24 to expedite last-mile connectivity. On the supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Sharma said there is no "dry out" at any distributor.

"In the past two days, about 1.4 crore bookings have been made, of which 92 lakh cylinders have also been delivered. As you know, the commercial LPG has been distributed by the Indian government. The Indian government has increased the availability of commercial LPG by about 70% and has talked about prioritising Dhaba, Restaurants, Industrial Canteens and Migrant Labour. I would like to tell you that after the issue of this order in the last week, about 2,60,000 FTL (Free Trade LPG) cylinders of 5 kg have been sold," she said.

LPG Shortage News: LPG supply normal in Kohima districtm says DC B Henok Buchem

Kohima DC B Henok Buchem on Monday said LPG distribution in the district is normal, and no irregularities have been detected in the distribution system.

The Kohima district monitoring committee for regulation and monitoring of LPG and other petroleum products and prevention of hoarding, black-marketing and overpricing, conducted inspection of LPG distribution agencies and outlets across district.

The DC appealed to the public to remain calm and not be influenced by any unverified or misleading information. He further requested the public to refrain from spreading such information.

He said any instances of malpractice by distributors or hoarding of LPG by individuals may be reported to the nearest police station or the district administration for necessary action.

LPG Shortage News: Hyderabad police seize 414 cylinders worth Rs 21L in Banjara Hills, arrest 10; gas sold at 3x price

In a major crackdown, police have busted a covert illegal LPG trade operating out of a graveyard in Banjara Hills, arresting 10 persons and seizing cylinders worth over Rs 21.8 lakh.

Acting on specific intelligence, sleuths of the task force (Jubilee Hills zone) along with Banjara Hills police conducted a raid on Sunday at a graveyard near Nagarjuna X Road. The operation uncovered a clandestine storage and distribution network where commercial LPG cylinders were stockpiled and sold at steeply inflated prices across the city. In all, 414 cylinders — both filled and empty — were seized, along with vehicles used for transport.

The arrested include Mohammed Aamir (42), identified as the main accused and gas supplier, along with Mohammed Yousuf, Mohammed Ismail, A Rama Rao, Lok Kumar, Mohammed Sakruddin, Mohammed Muntaz Ansari, Mohammed Minaj Ansari, Rajesh Pal and Ram Raj Singh. They played roles ranging from drivers and delivery personnel to labourers and facilitators.

Investigators said Aamir ran a licensed outlet, Metro gas agency, with a godown in Mamidipalle, Shamshabad, and an office in Afzalgunj. Despite holding a valid licence issued in Oct 2023, he allegedly diverted commercial LPG cylinders for illegal sale. The cylinders were transported and stored at the graveyard with the help of labourers, in violation of safety and regulatory norms. Read more

LPG Crisis in India News: Cylinders given to migrant workers

LPG dealers acrossthe Mumbai have begun giving 5kgLPG cylinders to migrantworkers after checking theirphoto IDs and getting a declaration signed by them. A dealer in the eastern suburbs saidthat on an average 20-30 cylinders have been given in pasttwo days. Nationally, sourcessaid, more than 88,000 cylinders have been given to workers in the past two days.

LPG Crisis in India News Live: LPG black marketing busted in Fatehabad, 73 cylinders seized

Amid concerns over the shortage of domestic LPGs following the US-Israel-Iran conflict, the food and supplies department has uncovered a case of black marketing in the district.


During raids conducted at hotels, restaurants, sweet shops and other eateries, officials seized a total of 73 gas cylinders, including 39 commercial and 34 domestic.

LPG Crisis in India News Live: 17,581 raids conducted across UP since Mar 12 to check black marketing of LPG cylinders, 17 held

The Uttar Pradesh government has carried out over 17,000 raids and inspections across the state since March 12 to check black marketing and ensure an uninterrupted supply of LPG and petroleum products.

During this period, 17 people were arrested, according to an official statement issued late Monday night.

Acting on directives from the chief secretary, district administrations have stepped up monitoring efforts. District supply officers and local officials are conducting regular inspections to ensure the timely availability of gas cylinders and fuel, the statement said.

A total of 17,581 raids and inspections have been conducted across the state since March 12 to maintain smooth supply and curb black marketing.

During the same period, 33 FIRs were registered against LPG distributors, while 189 FIRs were filed in other cases, leading to 17 arrests. Prosecution proceedings were also initiated against 224 people.

The statement added that the supply of petrol and diesel remains completely normal, with around 91,000 kilolitres of petrol and 1.15 lakh kilolitres of diesel currently in stock. A total of 12,888 petrol pumps are operational across the state.

Between March 27 and 29, thousands of kilolitres of fuel were sold.

The government has urged the public not to panic or hoard fuel.

The LPG situation in the state is also "satisfactory".

Through 4,107 gas distributors, cylinders are being supplied to consumers as per bookings, with sufficient stock available. The government is also focusing on expanding the city gas distribution (CGD) network, the statement said.

At a meeting chaired by the chief secretary, officials were instructed to expedite pending approvals and increase the number of PNG connections.

Meanwhile, the central government has allowed a 20 per cent additional allocation of commercial LPG cylinders from March 23.

To ensure continuous monitoring, a 24-hour control room has been set up at the office of the Food and Civil Supplies Commissioner. Control rooms are also operational in all districts to keep track of the situation, the statement added.

Switch to PNG if available, else may lose LPG connection within 3 months, says Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal

In cities and municipalities where piped natural gas (PNG) is being provided, those who do not apply for it could lose their LPG connections within three months, food and civil supplies minister Chhagan Bhujbal warned on Monday."We have found that in areas where PNG is available, some people have not opted for it," said Bhujbal.

In cities and municipalities where PNG is available or the lines are being laid, people must apply for the facility, he emphasised. "If they apply but the work is not complete, they will continue to receive LPG supply. But if they do not apply at all, they stand to lose their LPG connections in three months," Bhujbal said.

He emphasised that this did not apply to rural Maharashtra or to any areas where PNG facilities are not available. "I am speaking only about cities and municipalities where it is available already or the process has begun," said Bhujbal. Read more

LPG Shortage News: LPG bookings up by 5-6k/day as demand surges amid rush in Bhopal

Fears of supply disruptions caused by escalating Iran-US tensions have triggered a fresh rush on LPG cylinders in Bhopal district, with residents now booking an additional 5,000 to 6,000 units daily.

On normal days, the district’s 34 LPG dealers manage between 18,000 and 20,000 bookings. Officials attribute the sudden surge—bringing total bookings to around 26,000—not to any real shortage but to unfounded anxiety. Similar panic buying has spread to other regions, potentially putting pressure on logistics.

District authorities moved quickly on Monday to reassure the public, stating that ample stocks are available and urging residents to avoid overbooking.

Bhopal collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh dismissed shortage rumours outright. "There is no deficit in either stock or supply. I appeal to the public to avoid overbooking. Apart from this, there are no issues," Singh told reporters firmly.

R.K. Gupta, president of the Madhya Pradesh LPG Dealers Association, identified a key misconception behind the rush. "The stock and quantity of LPG are adequate," Gupta said.

"What is happening is that as soon as the 25-day waiting period expires, people begin booking again, under the assumption that it will take another 10 to 15 days for the cylinder to arrive. This is an incorrect approach. Book only when there is a genuine need."

Dealers warned that excessive bookings could create artificial delays, sidelining those with real requirements and affecting fair distribution. The administration is closely monitoring supplies to prevent hoarding from becoming an actual problem.

Officials noted that this episode mirrors past instances of panic buying during geopolitical tensions or natural disasters, when rumours often spread faster than facts. Citizens were urged to rely on verified information from government sources.

"In Madhya Pradesh's capital region, state-level stocks remain sufficient, with distributors equipped to meet demand," added Gupta. Nevertheless, the rush in Bhopal demonstrates how global tensions can impact local markets and underscores the need for measured consumer behaviour.

LPG Crisis in India News: 4k domestic PNG applications in Noida this month, but eateries are way behind

There has been a significant rise in demand for piped natural gas (PNG) connections in NCR since the beginning of March, amid reports of a crisis in LPG cylinder availability caused by supply chain disruptions linked to escalating US-Iran tensions.

In Noida, more than 4,000 applications have been received since March 1, while Ghaziabad has recorded 5,000, with officials linking the spike to supply constraints and uncertainty surrounding LPG availability.

Typically, Ghaziabad receives around 70-80 applications in a day, district supply officer Amit Tiwari said. “This number has now increased to over 200 applications in a day. The number of applications for PNG connections has gone up since March 4. We are processing them at the earliest,” he said.

In Delhi, the IGL Connect app has recorded more than 22,000 new registrations in the first 15 days of March. This marks a 14% increase in the registration rate compared to Feb, indicating consumer interest. Read more

LPG Crisis in India News: MNC manager held for battering wife to death with LPG cylinder in front of daughter

A 32-year-old woman was bludgeoned to death with a small LPG cylinder, allegedly by her husband, in front of their daughter inside their flat in southeast Delhi’s Pul Prahladpur on Sunday night.

Residents of the DDA Janta flats were alerted by screams and called up police. Cops from Pul Prahladpur police station reached the spot at 9 pm and found the woman, who was bleeding from her head, had already died. Her husband, Suresh Kumar, was taken into custody.

Poonam is survived by two daughters — a four-year-old who lives with her grandparents, and a younger child, aged around one-and-a-half years, who was present in the flat at the time of the incident.

Poonam, a graduate from Rajasthan, was a homemaker. Suresh is a manager at an MNC in southeast Delhi, which deals with cargo and shipments.

According to an initial investigation, the incident was triggered by an argument over financial support for Suresh’s brother. Police said Suresh allegedly attacked Poonam, repeatedly hitting her with the cylinder, inflicting fatal injuries. Read more

LPG Crisis News: Sikkim sets up 24x7 LPG control rooms across districts amid supply concerns

The Government of Sikkim has set up a centralised State Control Room in Gangtok, along with district-level control rooms in all six districts, to monitor and regulate LPG distribution. This initiative comes amid concerns over supply disruptions due to the ongoing geopolitical situation stemming from the West Asia conflict.

According to the Food & Civil Supplies Department, the control rooms will operate round-the-clock to ensure smooth distribution, prevent black marketing, and address public grievances. A regulated refill system has been introduced, allowing domestic LPG refills every 25 days in urban areas and every 45 days in rural regions.

Priority in commercial LPG supply will be given to essential services such as hospitals and educational institutions. Authorities have also mandated strict enforcement of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, with daily reporting from district units to the State Control Room.

Oil companies, including IOCL, HPCL, and BPCL, will coordinate with the government to maintain an uninterrupted supply. Officials have assured swift action against malpractice and emphasised that the system will remain in place until further notice.

Meanwhile, the Central government continues to maintain oversight and implement appropriate preparedness and response measures to ensure stability across key sectors. Efforts remain focused on sustaining uninterrupted energy supplies, safeguarding maritime operations, and extending necessary assistance to Indian nationals in the region.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas released a statement today updating the important steps undertaken in these areas as of March 29, 2026.

In view of the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, proactive measures are being undertaken to maintain the uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG across the country. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most vital maritime chokepoints, handling a significant portion of global oil shipments, making its security crucial for international trade and economic stability amid the continued conflict in the region following US-Israel joint military strikes on the Islamic Republic on February 28.

All refineries are operating at high capacity, with adequate crude inventories in place. The country is also maintaining sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel. Domestic LPG production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption.

CGD companies like IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas, and BPCL have offered incentives for obtaining domestic and commercial PNG connections. The government has requested States/UTs and Central Ministries to expedite approval of applications required for expansion of the CGD network.

The government has also offered all States/UTs an additional 10 per cent allocation of commercial LPG, provided they assist in the long-term transition from LPG to PNG. Subsequently, MoPNG has received applications from multiple States that have taken steps toward reforms for promoting the CGD network. Accordingly, additional allocations for some States have been recommended.

In addition, two LPG carriers—BW TYR and BW ELM—carrying a combined LPG cargo of about 94,000 MT safely transited and are moving towards Indian shores on Sunday.

LPG Shortage in India: Just bread & fruits at old age home in Delhi, but whose fault is it?

At an old age home in Asola Mehrauli, dinner is usually a quiet, reassuring routine for inmates. Food is served on time, medicines are handed out, and conversations drift till it is bedtime.On Monday, though, the rhythm was suddenly disrupted. Around 42 people, over 85 years old, were served only bread and fruit after the kitchen ran out of cooking gas.

The disruption, highlighted in a post on X by the home’s owner, Pravesh Jain, points to an alleged shortage of LPG cylinders that has left the facility waiting for supplies that are yet to arrive. Jain wrote, “Agent doing black marketing and wants Rs 3,200 a cylinder. I have asked my manager to wait till tomorrow or else buy gas from the open market.”

A representative of one of the LPG suppliers told TOI that the old age home has been using domestic cylinders since its inception. “Jain should have applied for a connection under the institutional (exempted) category, which covers old age homes and other non-profit institutions, and is not subject to the 25-day booking rule currently in place for domestic connections,” he said, adding that the old age home’s connection provides the address of a household, and not an institution. “We always ask people running such facilities to be aware of the categories while applying for gas connections.” Read more

LPG Crisis in India News Live: Delhi to fast-track 4 lakh PNG connections amid LPG shortages, says Ashish Sood

In a bid to expand the reach of piped natural gas (PNG) in the capital, Delhi Power Minister Ashish Sood on Monday directed officials to fast-track the rollout of around 4 lakh new PNG connections to ensure wider coverage across the city.

The move comes amid reports of LPG shortages in some parts of Delhi, with the government aiming to reduce dependence on cylinders by scaling up PNG access.

The directions were issued during a review meeting at the Delhi Secretariat, attended by senior officials from Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL), the Urban Development Department, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Delhi Jal Board, and Delhi government.

“The govt is committed to promoting clean, safe and accessible energy in the capital. A comprehensive strategy has been prepared to accelerate the expansion of PNG connections and ensure they reach a larger number of citizens,” Sood said.

He added that extensive awareness campaigns would be launched in areas where PNG services are not yet available, with special drives planned in unauthorised colonies and rural areas to inform residents about the benefits of PNG.

Delhi currently has the capacity to provide around 18 lakh PNG connections, of which approximately 14 lakh have already been installed. Officials have been instructed to work in mission mode to deliver the remaining connections at the earliest. At present, about 10,000 new PNG connections are being added every month, a figure that can be scaled up to 25,000 per month if required, an official said.

“It has been decided to prioritise the use of PNG in public welfare schemes. Under this, PNG will be used in place of traditional gas cylinders in Atal Canteens, night shelter kitchens, mid-day meal kitchens, and MCD kitchens. The use of PNG will be promoted in all restaurants, hotels, gurdwaras and temples across Delhi. Instructions have been issued to lay pipelines at the earliest in places where cylinders are still in use,” said Sood.

Sood also directed officials to simplify and make the process of obtaining PNG connections more transparent and citizen-centric. An intensive door-to-door campaign will be carried out to encourage residents to switch to PNG, an official said.

“Special focus will be given to deploying modern technologies in challenging areas such as narrow lanes and multi-storey buildings to ensure uninterrupted gas supply for citizens,” Sood said.

18 Indian ships in Persian Gulf; 2 LPG carriers with 94,000T LPG en route, all seafarers safe: Shipping ministry

18 Indian ships off Hormuz; 2 LPG carriers near India this week

Shipping ministry said 18 Indian-flagged ships are in West of Hormuz. Two ships carrying LPG are likely to reach Mumbai and New Mangalore Port on Tuesdes and Wednesday.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Vizag delivery agent flees with 30 LPG cylinders amid fuel crisis

Desperate times call for desperate measures, but a thieving LPG delivery agent in Vizag may have gone too far amid the current fuel crisis. At a time when Vizag city is faced with a long waiting list of cooking gas cylinders — a shortage triggered by the US-Israel-Iran war and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz — Appa Rao, a delivery agent, decamped with nearly 30 LPG cylinders which were to be delivered to residents of Chintagantyada in Gajuwaka mandal, police said. He likely sold these domestic LPG cylinders in black for a premium, taking advantage of the high demand, police said. Rao has been working as a delivery agent at Manikanta Indane gas agency in Chintagantyada for the last few years. Sniffing opportunity amid the crisis, he collected OTPs and empty gas cylinders from customers, assuring them of delivering refilled ones in a couple of days. A month on, these customers have still not received their LPG cylinders.

India Gas Crisis Live Updates: LPG supplies may stop in 3 months, says Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal

Maharashtra food and civil supplies minister Chhagan Bhujbal has said that LPG supplies may dry up in the next three months in the backdrop of the US-Iran war and there should be an increased focus on switching to piped natural gas (PNG). "We have had a discussion in Delhi with the food and civil supplies minister and petroleum minister. PNG is cheaper and should be used as much as possible. According to their circular, it's possible that LPG supplies will stop in the next three months. By then, people should apply for PNG connections where it is possible," said Bhujbal.

LPG Shortage Live Updates: PM Modi's leadership ensured no fuel shortage in India, says Yogi Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that while many countries around the world have declared an “emergency” due to the crisis in West Asia, India is moving forward with full strength due to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “visionary” leadership. “The Gulf War has created an atmosphere of instability. Many countries have started reducing working hours and wages because their economies are failing. In America, which is less dependent on the Gulf countries, the prices of petroleum products are skyrocketing. “The condition is bad in countries around India, such as Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Indonesia,” Adityanath claimed. India is the only country in the world which is moving forward with full capability, and “this is because it possesses a visionary leader in Modi Ji”, Adityanath said. “Prime Minister Modi has not only ensured a smooth supply chain, but also managed to control the prices of petroleum products by reducing the excise duty on them, thereby providing relief to 145 crore citizens,” Adityanath said, allaying concerns over shortages in fuel supply.

Gas Supply Crisis Live Updates: Many Kolkata restos complete switchover to non-LPG modes over weekend

A large number of restaurants across central and south Kolkata have almost entirely moved to electrical cooking over the weekend, completing a process that began a fortnight ago. While most have switched to induction cooktops, cooking ranges and electric fryers, some are using coal-andwood ovens in open spaces and have squeezed their menu to eliminate use of LPG. Some others are using a hybrid system with LPG still being used sparingly. Mocambo, which started a switch to electrical gadgets two weeks ago, has stopped using LPG altogether. Peter Cat and Peter Hu have migrated 50% of their cooking andare in the process of upgrading their electrical systems.
Oasis has moved more than 90% to electrical cooking and plans to enhance it. “We have started using a new kitchen, which only has inductions and fryers. Initially, we stuck to LPG for Chinese dishes, which take longer to cook. But with our LPG reserves depleting, we have movedfaster, especially this weekend,” said owner Pratap Daryanani.
Trincas completed 80%90% of its migration. Bar-B-Q and One Step Up have moved 60% of their cooking to electrical methods. “We, too, are in the process of upgrading our systems and are gradually decreasing the use of LPG,” said owner Rajiv Kothari.
Songhai, Manthan and MS Bar & Lounge have moved 70% of their cooking to electrical mode. “We have completed our migration and will stick to LPG for the remaining 30%,” said owner Sudesh Poddar. Outlets of Specialty Restaurants, including Oh! Calcutta, Café Mezzuna, Mainland China, Flame & Grill andHoppipola, however, are continuing with a hybrid system. “We are getting some LPG supply so we are still using gas,” said Specialty Restaurants founder and chairperson Anjan Chatterjee. Amber in central Kolkata has pruned its menu and shifted to electrical cooking ‘in a big way’.

LPG Crisis Live Updates: Operations back to normal in many factories as commercial LPG supplies improve; workers return

LPG crisis for factories across the country seems to be easing as the government steps up availability of commercial liquefied petroleum gas. Production disruptions are gradually subsiding as supplies of commercial LPG improve and migrant workers return to factories, supported by companies providing meals or alternative cooking solutions.This improvement follows the government’s move on Friday to raise the allocation of commercial LPG by an additional 20 percentage points, taking it to 70 per cent of pre-disruption levels that had been affected by the Gulf conflict and Iran’s near blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

LPG Shortage Live Updates: People urged to avoid panic buying of LPG

The RSS-affiliated Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) on Sunday voiced concern over "panic buying" of fuel and a surge in LPG cylinder bookings amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia, urging people to avoid hoarding as it creates "artificial shortage". It also called for accelerating the pace of building self-reliance in renewable energy sources to reduce the use of fossil fuels. In a statement, SJM national co-convenor Ashwani Mahajan said the sudden spike in demand for LPG cylinders and petrol is driven by panic as fuel supplies remain steady and people should rely only on verified information. "Average daily booking of LPG cylinders, which typically ranged between 5.5 to 6 million, has suddenly surged to between 7.5 and 8.8 million per day. Similarly, there has been a significant spike in the demand for petrol. "Although the country possesses adequate stocks of petrol, diesel and gas, and supplies continue to flow steadily due to the government's diplomatic efforts, including through key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, panic buying is nevertheless creating artificial shortages, thereby fuelling growing anxiety among the public," he said.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Delhi's Nigambodh Ghat reports no gas shortage

The supervisor at Nigambodh Ghat, Sanjeev, on Saturday assured full gas supply and said that the supply chain disruption has had no impact on the cremation ground. Speaking with ANI, the supervisor said that the cost of CNG per cremation takes about Rs 2000. "It has had no impact on Nigambodh Ghat. We have a full gas supply here. The cost of CNG for 1 cremation ranges from Rs 1500 to Rs 2000. On average, 4 to 5 cremations are done every day," he said. Meanwhile, the Government of India on Thursday said that fuel supply across the country remains stable and retail fuel outlets are operating normally despite the ongoing developments in West Asia, urging the public not to believe rumours or resort to panic buying. According to a statement released by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, "All retail outlets are operating normally across the country," even as there were reports of panic buying in some areas due to rumours.

LPG Shortage News: Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar slams CM Bhagwant Mann for ‘spreading panic’, demands apology

Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar on Sunday slammed chief minister Bhagwant Mann, saying that "if the CM now claims there is no shortage of oil and gas in Punjab, then why was a resolution passed in the Assembly against the central govt".

Jakhar demanded that Mann immediately apologise to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of Punjab, "because the confusion created by the AAP govt led to panic in the state over oil and gas". He added, "People began hoarding, even though in reality the supply of oil and gas was not affected."

Jakhar stated, "The rumours which the chief minister is now appealing to stop were actually caused by the so-called condemnation resolution brought by the AAP govt in the Assembly."

He further stated that the Prime Minister was already aware of global conditions, and had ensured reserves as per the country's needs. "Even now, oil and gas supplies are continuing under the same foreign policy that the CM earlier criticised," Jakhar stated.

He added, "It has always been AAP's policy to create confusion on every issue and shape public opinion based on falsehoods, but Punjab is not a state that can be misled easily. The people here are politically, economically, and socially aware, and they understand such tactics well." Read more

LPG Crisis in India News: Crackdown on LPG hoarding: 1,710 cylinders seized in March

Delhi police seized 1,710 LPG cylinders and registered 22 FIRs against hoarding and black marketing across the city in March.

The crime branch recovered 1,145 cylinders, while district units seized 295 cylinders. Among districts, South recorded the highest recovery with 223 cylinders, followed by South West with 119. Dwarka, West, and South East districts reported seizures ranging from 60 to 65 cylinders.

Some districts, however, reported minimal recoveries. East district conducted the most raids at 30 but seized only five cylinders, while Shahdara carried out 18 raids and recovered nine cylinders.

In contrast, certain districts showed a higher conversion of raids into legal action. South West registered six FIRs from seven raids, while West recorded four FIRs from five raids. The crime branch filed FIRs in all three of its raids, reflecting more targeted operations. The FIRs were registered under sections of the Essential Commodities Act and BNS.

No raids were reported in Central, New Delhi, North East, Outer North, and Outer districts.

On March 26, the crime branch busted a racket at a gas agency in Ranhola, Outer Delhi, seizing 459 commercial cylinders. Police said the agency owners had been stockpiling these cylinders to create an artificial scarcity. In Sangam Vihar, delivery personnel were found siphoning 1–2 kg of LPG from filled domestic cylinders into empty ones, which were then sold for Rs 3,000. Authorities noted that the hoarding posed a serious fire hazard.

LPG Crisis News: Delivery agent steals 30 cylinders, sells on black market

Desperate times call for desperate measures, but a thieving LPG delivery agent in Vizag may have gone too far amid the current fuel crisis.

At a time when Vizag city is faced with a long waiting list of cooking gas cylinders—a shortage triggered by the US-Israel-Iran war and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz—Appa Rao, a delivery agent, decamped with nearly 30 LPG cylinders which were to be delivered to residents of Chintagantyada in Gajuwaka mandal, police said.

He likely sold these domestic LPG cylinders in black for a premium, taking advantage of the high demand, police said. Rao has been working as a delivery agent at Manikanta Indane gas agency in Chintagantyada for the last few years.

Sniffing opportunity amid the crisis, he collected OTPs and empty gas cylinders from customers, assuring them of delivering refilled ones in a couple of days. A month on, these customers have still not received their LPG cylinders.

Aggrieved, some of them visited the gas agency to inquire about the delay in delivery, only to be told that the cylinders were delivered. This led to an argument between them and the agency staff. When the agency’s owner and staff verified their complaints, they found that Appa Rao had the custody of both empty and refilled cylinders and has been missing for the last few days.

LPG Shortage in India: Centre allows temporary kerosene distribution in kerosene-free states, UTs amid LPG supply concerns

The Central government has allowed ad-hoc allocation of public distribution system (PDS) kerosene in 21 states and Union Territories, including regions previously classified as kerosene-free, to support household cooking and lighting needs amid global energy supply pressures.

The move follows the month-long war in West Asia, which has disrupted the energy supply chain, particularly cooking gas LPG.

India imports 60 per cent of its cooking gas needs, 85–90 per cent of which comes from Gulf countries. The war has halted these supplies, forcing curtailment of LPG to commercial users such as hotels and restaurants.

While domestic households have been given priority in the supply of available LPG, limited stocks have led to panic buying and long queues.

To ease pressure on LPG, the government allowed the temporary use of kerosene for cooking and lighting throughout the country, including in the 21 states and UTs that were previously declared kerosene-free.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued a notification allowing temporary exemptions under the Petroleum Act, 1934, and Petroleum Rules, 2002, to facilitate distribution of PDS kerosene in 21 states and UTs, according to a gazette notification dated March 29.

Under the notification, up to two designated PSU oil marketing company (OMC) service stations per district—preferably company-owned and operated—will be permitted to store up to 5,000 litres of kerosene, subject to prescribed safety conditions.

Agents and dealers have been exempted from obtaining licences for decanting kerosene at these designated stations, while tank vehicles with existing licences will also not require additional permits for the same purpose.

The exemptions are conditional on strict adherence to safety norms and operational guidelines issued by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). Records of storage, decantation, and distribution must be maintained and made available for inspection by district authorities and PESO.

The order takes immediate effect and will remain valid for 60 days or until further notice.

The notification covers 21 PDS kerosene-free states and Union Territories, including Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.

"In view of the prevailing geo-political situation affecting energy supplies worldwide, the Central Government has decided to make an ad hoc allocation of PDS kerosene to the States/Union Territories (UTs), including 21 states/UTs which are PDS kerosene-free," the notification said.

This, it added, "will facilitate prompt distribution of PDS kerosene to households for cooking and lighting purposes."

LPG Shortage News: Hostels, govt canteens to get LPG refills on priority

In line with Union govt directives to regulate commercial use of LPG amid the West Asia crisis, the state govt Sunday issued a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) to manage supply and distribution.

Under new guidelines, all commercial establishments must register for piped natural gas (PNG) connections with their respective distribution entities within seven days "to be considered under the allocation framework".

The state has categorised commercial LPG distribution into four priority sectors, which district administrations must follow. The top priority group includes essential institutions such as educational institutions, student hostels, and hospitals; second priority includes govt and public sector units, as well as canteens at airports, railway stations, and bus terminals.

100% quota to first 2 priorities

The third priority category - closely watched due to its scale - covers restaurants, dhabas, hotels, industrial canteens, food processing units, KMF (Nandini) dairies, Indira Canteens, community kitchens, paying guest accommodations, corporate canteens, and sports facilities.

The fourth category includes labour-intensive and industrial sectors such as steel, automobile, textile, dye, chemical, and plastics industries, along with seed processing, agriculture and allied sectors, pharmaceuticals, fisheries, zoological parks, poultry, and sericulture.

The SOP states the first two priority sectors will receive 100% of their quota, while supply to the third category will be considered after meeting needs of higher-priority segments. Read more