LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: MP CM Mohan Yadav accuses Rahul Gandhi of ‘irresponsible politics’ over LPG issue

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: MP CM Mohan Yadav accuses Rahul Gandhi of ‘irresponsible politics’ over LPG issue

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav on Sunday accused Rahul Gandhi, leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha, of indulging in “irresponsible politics” over cooking gas despite the delicate situation arising from the ongoing West Asia conflict. Yadav made the remarks while addressing a tribal conference in Nepanagar in Burhanpur district.

The chief minister said oil installations are getting destroyed in the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran, and war is looming large over the West Asia. “Despite such a difficult situation, the Congress is indulging in irresponsible politics over the cooking gas,” Yadav said, asserting that there was no shortage of domestic or commercial cooking gas in India, PTI reported.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah flags LPG shortage, urges Centre to consider imports

Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday said he has written to the Centre urging it to explore alternative measures, including importing LPG from other countries, to address the shortage of cooking gas reported in parts of the state.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Siddaramaiah said the state government had already responded to the issue in the legislature and taken it up with the Union government to ensure uninterrupted LPG supply.

“The government has already given replies twice, both in the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council. I have also written a letter. Regarding this shortage, I have said that efforts should be made to explore alternatives, such as bringing LPG from other countries to avoid the shortage. Even now, I am urging the central government,” the chief minister said, news agency PTI reported.

He said a large section of the population depends on hotels for food and added that disruption in LPG supply could affect daily life.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: DMK-led alliance stages protests in Tamil Nadu over LPG shortage

(Reported by news agency PTI)

The DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance on Sunday staged statewide protests, criticising the Centre over the shortage of domestic and commercial LPG cylinders across the country.

The protests saw participation from alliance constituents, including Congress, Left parties, and Thol Thirumavalavan-led VCK.

In a statement, the parties alleged that the crisis, which has impacted several households and MSME sector, is a result of central government's "misguided policies" and lack of planning.

The alliance pointed out that while the conflict in the Gulf region has disrupted global supply chains since last month, the Centre has "failed" to secure adequate buffer stocks.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Oil Marketing Companies urge consumers to avoid panic bookings

(Reported by ANI)

Domestic LPG supplies across the country remain stable and secure as oil marketing companies continue operations to ensure uninterrupted delivery to households. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, along with Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and HP, confirmed that systems are geared to maintain a steady flow of cylinders.

The Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) circulated an advisory for consumers to avoid panic bookings or visiting distributor premises, stating that such early bookings can delay deliveries for those who need cylinders urgently. The current distribution framework is designed to function without the need for physical visits to distributors, allowing consumers to book refills from their homes.

"Domestic LPG supply across the country remains fully secure and uninterrupted," a joint statement by the OMCs said on X.

The statement noted that unusual booking patterns could disrupt the timeline for others. "Unusually early or panic bookings can delay deliveries for others who need cylinders urgently. Let's ensure the system works smoothly for everyone. Book only when required. Every kitchen deserves its flame on time," the statement added.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Coimbatore gas agency owner arrested under ESMA for hoarding nearly 1,000 LPG cylinders

Police seized nearly 1,000 commercial LPG cylinders from a godown in Papanaickenpalayam near Lakshmi Mills in Coimbatore after arresting a 33-year-old gas agency owner under the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) for allegedly storing large quantities of cylinders illegally and selling them at inflated prices during the ongoing LPG shortage.

Officials said it was the first time in the city that action had been taken under ESMA against an LPG dealer.

Police are also investigating the role of three others suspected to be involved in the hoarding and illegal sale of commercial cylinders.

Relief for booking home LPG as oil cos restore online & phone-based systems

The online and phone-based LPG booking system returned to normal on Saturday after oil companies restored the Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) that crashed earlier this week due to a sudden surge in consumer calls.The restoration brought significant relief to thousands of households across Bengal that were forced to queue at distributor offices to book domestic gas cylinders.The OMCs were forced to return to old manual booking on March 12. Read more

LPG shortage in Hyderabad: Earnings halved, rue food delivery executives

A shortage of commercial LPG cylinders in Hyderabad has begun impacting food delivery services, leaving thousands of gig workers struggling to maintain their daily earnings as several restaurants scale down operations.With limited supply of cooking gas, many eateries have either reduced their menus or temporarily stopped accepting online orders.This has led to a sharp drop in deliveries through platforms such as Zomato and Swiggy, directly affecting delivery partners who depend on daily trips for income. Read more

India LPG Cylinder News: LPG bookings in Greater Hyderabad

The hotel and restaurant industry, comprising over 70,000 units in the city, is staring at massive financial losses potentially touching Rs 100 crore per day as operations remain disrupted due to a shortage of commercial cylinders.

Industry representatives say the sector has already suffered losses of around Rs 50 crore in the last two days.

Many restaurants had to scale down kitchen operations, preparing only limited menu items that consume less gas, while some smaller eateries temporarily shut operations during certain hours to conserve LPG. At the same time, the rising cost of LPG forced some hotels and restaurants to increase the prices of tiffins and meals.
Units across sectors hit.

According to the National Restaurants Association of India (NRAI), the crisis is affecting establishments of all sizes — from small roadside eateries and tiffin centres to large-scale hotels and restaurants. They say the govt must consider allocating at least 50% of the regular commercial LPG supply to hotels and eateries so that kitchens can continue operating at a basic level.

As LPG shortage pushes them to explore alternatives, many restaurants across the city say switching to induction cooking is easier said than done. Between limited sanctioned electricity loads and an already stressed power infrastructure, relying on multiple electric stoves may not be a practical option for large-scale cooking throughout the day, say restaurateurs.

While many households have begun panic-buying induction stoves as a temporary substitute for LPG, restaurateurs point out that commercial kitchens operate on a completely different scale. Large batches of food, high-flame cooking, and peak-hour demand make induction an unreliable option, forcing several eateries to trim their menus or alter cooking methods.

Chandrashekar Hebbar, honorary president of Karnataka State Hotels Association, told TOI that more than 20% of restaurants across Bengaluru are already affected by the LPG shortage, though many establishments are reluctant to publicly acknowledge the disruption. "A majority of hotels are affected and many have started limiting their menu to rice-based items and food that requires less LPG," he said, adding that switching entirely to induction cooking is impractical for most establishments.

Another major constraint is power load capacity. According to Hebbar, most restaurants do not have the sanctioned power needed to run several induction stoves simultaneously. "We may need higher sanctioned load to support this kind of additional demand. Also, the more appliances we use, the greater the load on transmission lines which are already overburdened," he explained.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Delivery boys assaulted in Pune

(Reported by Neha Madaan/TNN)

At least one cylinder delivery person was slapped and another was hit near the neck, while a few others were threatened amid spiraling demand for cooking gas in the city.A member of All India LPG Distributors' Federation, Maharashtra (AILDF-MAH) said a delivery boy was slapped this week when he went to a housing society to deliver a pre-booked cylinder.

"He had locked the vehicle before upstairs to complete the delivery, as agencies have instructed staffers to secure vehicles to prevent cylinder theft amid the crisis. When he came down, around 10-12 people demanded cylinders. When he told them those cylinders were booked, they became aggressive. They argued with him and even slapped him. He called our office, but by the time our manager reached the spot, those people had left," the AILDF-MAH member said.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Haryana govt okays committees to ensure supply of commercial LPG as per need

The Haryana government has authorised district-level committees headed by deputy commissioners to ensure uninterrupted supply of commercial LPG to essential sectors such as hospitals and educational institutions, including hostels.

Deputy commissioners have also been empowered to prioritise the allotment of commercial LPG cylinders for marriage functions, depending on need and availability.

An order issued on Saturday by Additional Chief Secretary of the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, Raja Sekhar Vundru, said marriage-related requirements may be given priority while distributing commercial LPG cylinders.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Dairies warn of milk supply trouble amid LPG shortage; hotels halt orders

(Reported by Bella Jaisinghani)

Milk distribution could become the next casualty of the ongoing LPG crisis.

Pasteurisation requires a continuous supply of fuel, be it LPG or piped gas. There is a palpable shortage of packaging material including pouches and polythene bags.

Moreover, bulk buyers like hotels and restaurants have reduced consumption of milk, causing dairies to dispose of stocks at cheap rates.

Devendra Shah, founder chairman of Gowardhan Dairy, said, “Milk pouches and cartons are not available because manufacturing industries are not receiving gas to produce these items. We have stocks only to last 10 days.”

Sharib Shaikh who manages Suresh Dairy in Chembur, said, “There is a shortage of plastic bags and if it continues we will face a crisis in 10 days. All input costs including transportation have risen.”

Tabela owners and dairies are worried because their regular bulk buyers—hotels, restaurants and other institutional clients—have slowed down or halted purchase of buffalo and cow milk due to closure.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Maharashtra caps LPG supply for hotels, industries; hospitals get 100% allocation

(Reported by Chittaranjan Tembhekar)

The Maharashtra govt has begun sector-wise rationing of commercial LPG cylinders following a directive from the Centre asking district collectors to prioritise essential services while allocating gas across cities, towns and villages.

The state govt has laid down supply percentages for various sectors. In letters issued on March 13 and 14 by the state food, civil supplies and consumer protection department, collectors have been told to strictly follow a priority list while distributing commercial LPG within their districts.

Hospitals, educational institutions and key public services will receive 100% LPG supply, ensuring uninterrupted cooking and operational needs in critical sectors.

The order specifies govt and private hospitals, as well as schools, colleges, hostels and other educational institutions, must be supplied LPG cylinders at their full requirement levels. The state govt has also separately instructed collectors to ensure educational institutions—including preprimary schools, secondary schools and aided institutions —get 100% LPG allocation.

Other essential public services such as sanitation facilities, milk collection centres and community kitchens (annachatra) have also been placed in the top priority category with full supply entitlement.

For the hospitality sector, including restaurants, hotels, roadside dhabas, tourism establishments and religious or public places, LPG allocation is capped at 90% of demand.

Instead of spending his mornings coordinating supplies and supervising preparations for large orders, Rajesh Aswal now finds himself chasing LPG cylinders across the city. The 40-year-old Mahipalpur-based caterer says his kitchen is running on uncertainty due to the ongoing LPG shortage.

“People have wedding menus planned six months beforehand. Unlike restaurants, we don’t have the privilege to say no to items,” said Aswal, in the business for nearly two decades.

Caterers across the city told TOI that the shortage, triggered by the West Asia crisis, has sparked panic similar to the Covid lockdown. While some have scaled down operations, others are resorting to desperate measures to keep their kitchens running.

A west Delhi-based caterer said he had been forced to buy cylinders in the black market at nearly double the official price. “Sellers know we are desperate and they are taking advantage of it,” he said, adding that some of his associates have temporarily shut operations. To cope with the spike in fuel expenses, many caterers are cutting budgets elsewhere, including limiting staff at events, he said. “We only keep employees who are necessary, but there isn’t much to reduce.”

Another 50-year-old caterer said he had begun burning wood to complete orders. “If it comes down to our livelihood, we have to choose options we know may add to pollution,” he said. “Items like biryani and chhole are difficult to manage on makeshift stoves,” he rued.

Aanya Sharma, a 25-yearold who runs a catering service across Delhi-NCR with her father from Faridabad, said it had been nearly 10 days since they had received a cylinder. “We know that some people have been hoarding. It has become a huge problem for those in genuine need,” Sharma said.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: PNG supply to hospitals intact, says Indraprastha Gas Limited

Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) on Saturday clarified that piped natural gas (PNG) supply to hospitals has not been stopped and no disruption is expected.

The company said the advisory issued was only a precautionary step in view of uncertainties in global LNG supply and did not indicate any halt in gas supply.

A report published in The Times of India on March 14, “PNG Supply may be hit, IGL asks hosps to be ready”, was based on the advisory issued by the company and the arrangements that hospital authorities were contemplating in case of a disruption.

The story nowhere said that the supply had been stopped or disrupted in any manner.

In an advisory issued on March 9, the company stated: “While IGL is undertaking all reasonable efforts to maintain uninterrupted PNG supply to you, we recommend maintaining adequate alternate fuel arrangements as a contingency, as per clause 2.1 of the Gas Sale Agreement.”

In a statement sent to TOI on Saturday, IGL said that it continues to coordinate with suppliers to manage gas availability and ensure supply for all essential services, including hospitals.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Cyber experts warn of online scams, fake ads promise instant cylinder delivery

Cyber experts have warned of a surge in online scams in the wake of the situation surrounding shortage of LPG cylinders, with fraudsters targeting anxious citizens through fake advertisements promising immediate delivery.

Once a person shows interest, they are contacted with links to fraudulent websites that resemble booking platforms.

These fake portals often ask users to make advance payments while assuring quick doorstep delivery.

Another such tactic: sending APK files disguised as LPG booking links. When downloaded, these files can install malware in the victim’s phone, allowing access to personal information, and even siphon money from bank accounts.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Govt caps commercial cylinder supply at 20%, priority for hospitals, railways, airports

(Reported by Alok Mishra)

Amid concerns over shortages of commercial cooking gas in parts of the city, govt has introduced a temporary policy for the distribution of commercial LPG cylinders to regulate distribution and ensure that essential services such as hospitals, railways and airports continued to receive 100% of required supplies.

Under the arrangement, only 20% of the average daily commercial LPG consumption in Delhi will be made available for regulated distribution. This translates to around 1,800 cylinders per day, out of the nearly 9,000 commercial cylinders typically sold daily, the policy stated.

A priority-based distribution system focusing on eight categories was formulated to ensure that critical institutions did not face disruption in operations. Educational institutions, hospitals, railways and airports were placed in the top priority category. Govt departments and public sector institutions with in-house canteens were kept at level 2, while restaurants and eateries, which account for the largest share of commercial LPG use, will receive the biggest portion of the available supply with a cap of 762 cylinders.

Educational institutions, hospitals, railways and airports can receive up to 200 cylinders, and govt and PSU canteens 236. Hotels and guesthouses can get 72 cylinders, dairies and bakeries 200, caterers 162, industrial units 18, and sports facilities and others 150 cylinders daily.

Other sectors being covered include sweet shops and banquet halls. Smaller industrial users such as dry-cleaning units, packaging and pharmaceutical units are placed in a lower priority category.

Govt clarified that no supply would be made in 5kg cylinders as their distribution was not undertaken through LPG distributors.

The policy also includes measures to prevent hoarding and ensure fair distribution. Bookings will be processed through the regular online systems and supplies will be made on a first-in-first-out basis if immediate delivery is not possible, an official said.

Real full story: Govt focuses on eight groups of commercial LPG users

PNG supply to hospitals stable, uninterrupted: IGL

Indraprastha Gas Limited clarified that piped natural gas (PNG) supply to hospitals and other essential service establishments remains stable and uninterrupted amid reports of possible disruptions. The company said that after QatarEnergy declared force majeure on March 3, customers were informed about the potential supply impact. It added that immediate alternate arrangements were made and there is currently no shortage of natural gas in the country, with supplies to hospitals, healthcare facilities and other critical institutions continuing without disruption.

'There's no problem, misinformation is being spread': Chhattisgarh CM amid LPG constraints

"There is no problem. Misinformation is being spread... The people of the state should stay away from rumours; they will not face any trouble," he said.

'Kashi temple kitchen shut due to gas crunch,' claims Congress leader Ajay Rai

"What kind of blow is this to the centuries-old traditions of Kashi, Narendra Modi ji? It is a matter of deep anguish that, due to a severe shortage of LPG, even Kashi's sacred 'Maa Annapurna Ki Rasoi' has been forced to shut down today. A door from where no one ever returned hungry, today even sadhus, saints, and devotees are being compelled to go back without a meal," he wrote on X in Hindi.

'There will be no shortage of oil, kerosene, or diesel': Jyotiraditya Scindia

Speaking to the reporters in Guna, union minister Scindia said, "The Prime Minister has assured the citizens of the country that there will be no shortage of oil, kerosene, or diesel. We are making every possible effort regarding the supply of gas, and due to the success of the Prime Minister's diplomacy, the Strait of Hormuz has been opened for India, ensuring that the country does not face any shortage of oil or gas."

"In addition, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri presented a detailed analysis of the entire situation in Parliament yesterday and confirmed that India has sufficient reserves... At such a time, the Congress party and the Leader of the Opposition are busy baking political bread... The Congress is not concerned about the country," he added.

Will take strict action against LPG cylinder hoarders and black marketeers: Gujarat in-charge DGP

After attending a high-level crime conference in Surat district, Rao said police have been directed to take stringent action against anyone involved in hoarding or selling LPG cylinders on the black market.

"In a meeting with Collectors, District Supply Officers and officials of the Civil Supplies Department, we have instructed that vehicles belonging to LPG agencies and distributors should not be obstructed so that supply remains uninterrupted. At the same time, strict checks will be carried out to ensure that LPG cylinders are safe and free from leakage," Rao told reporters.

Govt bars LPG connections and cylinder refills for consumers with PNG supply

The ministry of petroleum and natural gas, in an amendment order said, "No person having a Piped Natural Gas connection and also having domestic LPG connection shall retain a domestic LPG connection, or take refills of domestic LPG cylinders from any Government oil company, or through their distributors. Such persons will be required to immediately surrender their domestic LPG connection.

No person having a Piped Natural Gas connection, shall obtain a domestic LPG connection, or take refills of domestic LPG cylinders from any Government oil company, or through their distributors."

Commercial LPG sale starts in 29 states

Commercial LPG cylinder distribution has begun in 29 states and Union Territories, while authorities have intensified raids and surprise inspections across the country to curb hoarding and black-marketing amid pressure on cooking gas supplies following the West Asia conflict. The government said domestic consumers are being prioritised even as panic bookings for LPG refills have risen sharply, with daily bookings increasing from about 75 lakh to nearly 88 lakh.

"The situation is a matter of concern for all of us, but we are ensuring that household consumers do not face inconvenience. Domestic consumers have been prioritized, and LPG cylinder supply is being ensured for them," said Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

India LPG Cylinder News: Govt bars LPG connections and cylinder refills for consumers with PNG supply, says report

According to a Reuters report, the Centre has directed government-run oil marketing companies not to issue new LPG connections to households that already have piped natural gas (PNG) connections.

No fuel shortage in Tamil Nadu, don't panic: Oil companies

The state-level coordinator of three major oil marketing companies on Saturday sought to allay fears of a fuel shortage and urged people not to believe rumours.

M. Annadurai, Executive Director and State Head for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry at Indian Oil Corporation, said the three fuel terminals operated by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited and IndianOil have adequate stocks of High Speed Diesel and Motor Spirit (petrol) that can meet demand for the next nine days.

"Besides, we are receiving regular supply of the petrol and diesel through rail wagons and pipelines. There is no shortage of fuel. Please do not panic. And do not believe in rumours (about shortage of fuel)," Annadurai, who also serves as the state-level coordinator for the three oil marketing companies (HPCL, BPCL and IOCL), told reporters.

LPG relief: Two Indian vessels cross Strait of Hormuz safely with 92,700 tonne cargo, set to dock soon

In a boost to domestic energy supplies amid disruptions in West Asia, two Indian-flagged LPG carriers safely crossed the conflict-hit Strait of Hormuz early Saturday and are now on course for ports in Gujarat. LPG carriers Shivalik and Nanda Devi are heading to Mundra and Kandla, respectively, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Ministry of Shipping, said at a media briefing. Read full story

253 Indian seafarers repatriated so far; six LPG carriers given priority berthing: Shipping ministry

Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Shipping Ministry, said, "Regarding repatriation—a subject on which I provided some details yesterday as well, in the last 24 hours, 30 seafarers have been brought back to India. Individuals were brought from various airports across the Gulf region—from their respective locations—and successfully repatriated back to India. With this, the total number of repatriations has now reached 253... Six LPG carriers—which had arrived from various corners of the world, and not solely from the Gulf region—were accorded priority berthing by the major ports."

India LPG Cylinder News: 'No dry out reported'

Joint Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Sujata Sharma, said, "No issue with availability of petrol and diesel, crude supply; LPG supply a concern but no dry out reported."

India LPG Cylinder News: CAQM relaxes biomass fuel norms in Delhi-NCR for one month

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued a notification relaxing norms for the use of biomass as fuel in Delhi and the National Capital Region for a period of one month.

'All Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf region are safe': Shipping ministry

"All Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf region are safe, and no untoward incidents involving them have been reported over the last 24 hours. There were 24 Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf, situated to the west of the Strait of Hormuz. Among these, two vessels—the Shivalik and the Nanda Devi, Indian-flagged vessels, both LPG carriers," said ministry official Rajesh Kumar Sinha.

"They safely transited the Strait of Hormuz late last night/early this morning and are now proceeding towards India. These vessels are carrying approximately 92,700 metric tons of LPG; their ports of arrival will be Mundra and Kandla, with expected arrival dates of March 16 and March 17, respectively. Consequently, there are now 22 Indian-flagged vessels remaining in the Persian Gulf, carrying a total of 611 seafarers," he added.

'Instances of panic booking remain excessively high': Govt

"Regarding the LPG supply, I must state that it remains a matter of concern for us in light of the prevailing geopolitical situation; however, no stockouts have been reported thus far. I would like to re-emphasise one specific point: instances of panic booking remain excessively high. The figure I shared with you yesterday—approximately 7.5 to 7.6 million bookings—has now risen to nearly 8.8 million," said Sujata Sharma, joint secretary (marketing & oil refinery), ministry of petroleum & natural gas

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Govt update on LPG supply to India

Two India-flagged ships carrying 92,000 tonnes of LPG will dock at Mundra and Kanda ports on March 16 and 17, said a senior shipping ministry official.

'Sufficient supply of crude': Govt

In a media briefing, Sujata Sharma, joint secretary (marketing & oil refinery), ministry of petroleum & natural gas, said, "As far as crude oil and refineries are concerned, we have a sufficient supply of crude, and our refineries are operating at full capacity. No instances of stockouts have been reported at retail outlets; ample petrol and diesel are available. We produce sufficient petrol and diesel domestically to meet our requirements; consequently, we have no need for imports. As far as natural gas is concerned, I drew your attention yesterday to the government's objective: wherever commercial consumers are facing difficulties or disruptions in their LPG supply, they should be transitioned to PNG connections. In furtherance of this objective, GAIL (Gas Authority of India Limited) held a meeting with various CGD operators and advised them to expedite the provision of PNG connections to all eligible commercial consumers wherever feasible..."

India LPG Cylinder News: Govt holds inter-ministerial briefing

"Situation serious, but no shortage of cylinders': Govt on LPG booking concerns," said the govt in its briefing.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: Tamil Nadu govt announces Rs 2 per unit power subsidy to eateries switching to induction stoves

The Tamil Nadu government announced a subsidy of Rs 2 per unit of electricity for restaurants, hotels and tea shops that switch from commercial LPG cylinders to electric stoves to run their kitchens.

The decision comes amid concerns around commercial LPG cylinders for eateries following the conflict in West Asia that began on February 28, the government said, adding that Chief Minister M. K. Stalin has been holding review meetings since the crisis began.

At a review meeting held on Saturday, the state decided to provide a subsidy of Rs 2 per unit on the additional electricity consumed by hotels, tea shops and cloud kitchens that use induction stoves.

"This subsidy will remain in effect as long as the commercial LPG usage restrictions announced by the Centre are in place," Additional Chief Secretary J. Radhakrishnan said.

India LPG Cylinder News: Demand for coal rises in Jaipur as small eateries

The shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has led to a surge in coal demand, with several dhabas and small eateries turning to traditional coal-fired bhattis to keep their kitchens operational.

The shift is most visible in the crowded lanes of Jaipur’s walled city, where many traditional dhabas and small restaurants run open kitchens that can easily accommodate coal-based cooking methods.

Coal traders say demand has climbed sharply in recent days as restaurant owners struggle to secure commercial LPG supplies.

Deepak Khandelwal, a coal trader in the city, said the uptick in demand has been particularly noticeable over the past few days because of the gas cylinder shortage.

"The demand has certainly increased in the last three-four days in the wake of the shortage of commercial cylinders. Dhabas and restaurants in the walled city are the main buyers right now," he said.

India LPG Cylinder News: 'Congress party is deliberately causing panic'

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis claimed that the Congress is intentionally spreading panic, leading to long queues at LPG outlets and insisted that there is no actual gas shortage.

India LPG Cylinder News: People queue at LPG distribution centres amid reports of supply disruption in West Bengal

LPG distribution centres in Kolkata and several districts of West Bengal witnessed large queues on Saturday, amid reports of supply disruption in the wake of the West Asia conflict.

A large number of people were seen outside the distribution centres since early morning at various places in Kolkata, South 24 Parganas and North 24 Parganas districts.

Meawhile, authorities have stepped up inspection across the state to curb alleged hoarding and diversion of LPG cylinders, officials said.

The Enforcement Branch (EB) of Kolkata Police, along with district authorities, have been conducting raids at several distribution centres and storage points over the past two days, they said.

In Kolkata, the EB teams inspected at least 25 centres, including in Lake Gardens and Jodhpur Park, to verify stock positions, the officials said.

Similar inspections were carried out in districts such as Hooghly and North 24 Parganas. The state government has set up a 24-hour monitoring mechanism, and held meetings with distributors to ensure adequate supply to priority sectors such as hospitals and schools.

Kamarhati Municipal Councillor Bimal Saha was seen distributing cow dung cakes to people standing in queues outside LPG dealerships, in what he described as a symbolic protest over the “shortage of cylinders”.

India LPG Cylinder News: 1,483 locations in Lucknow raided to check black marketing of LPG cylinders

(Reported by news agency PTI)

Amid concerns over an LPG supply crisis, the Uttar Pradesh Food and Civil Supplies Department carried out raids at 1,483 locations across the state and arrested six people as part of a crackdown on the black marketing of cooking gas cylinders, an official statement said.

The inspections were conducted on Friday in coordination with the district administration.

During the drive, authorities registered 24 FIRs, according to the statement issued by the Uttar Pradesh government late on Friday night.

“In line with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's instructions, the Food and Civil Supplies Department and the district administration are continuously monitoring the supply system of LPG cylinders and conducting inspections and raids across the state so that no shortage or irregularity occurs anywhere,” the statement said.

Chief Secretary S P Goyal has also directed all district magistrates to take necessary measures to ensure the uninterrupted availability of petrol, diesel and LPG cylinders.

The government said Uttar Pradesh is the first state to launch swift and stringent action against LPG black marketing. As part of the campaign, district-level enforcement teams conducted inspections and raids at 1,483 locations on Friday.

The operation resulted in four FIRs against LPG distributors and 20 against other individuals allegedly involved in the illegal trade of LPG cylinders. Six people were arrested on the spot, while prosecution proceedings were initiated against 19 others.

The statement added that LPG cylinder delivery to consumers is being carried out according to bookings through the state’s 4,108 LPG distributors.

It further said that distributors currently have adequate stocks of LPG cylinders and that domestic refills are being supplied as required.

“To monitor the supply system and ensure quick resolution of any issue, a 24-hour control room has been established at the office of the food commissioner. Officers of the Food and Civil Supplies Department have been deployed there,” the statement said.

Similar control rooms have also been set up in all districts across the state.

LPG Crisis in India Live Updates: 2 Indian flagged LPG carriers granted transit through Strait of Hormuz by Iran

(Reported by news agency ANI)

Two Indian flagged vessels carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) have been granted transit through the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian authorities. One of them is the Shivalik which as per Vessel traffic monitoring site marinetraffic was last reported to be in the Gulf of Oman and expected to reach its destination by March 21.

On Friday, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways provided an update on the maritime situation in the Persian Gulf region and the steps being taken to ensure the safety of Indian seafarers and vessels. As per the Ministry, 24 Indian-flagged vessels with 668 Indian seafarers are currently operating in the Persian Gulf. 76 Indian seafarers remain on three vessels east of the Strait of Hormuz.

The Ministry said that DG Shipping continues coordination with ship owners, RPSL agencies and Indian missions, and all Indian vessels and crew are being actively monitored. The Ministry added that since activation of the 24-hour control room, DG Shipping has handled over 2,425 calls and 4,441 emails and facilitated the safe repatriation of more than 223 stranded Indian seafarers.

India LPG Cylinder News: Even MP's struggle to get tea in Parliament, claims Congress MP Mohammad Jawed

(Reported by news agency ANI)

Amid the ongoing LPG crisis in India triggered by the West Asia conflict, Congress MP Mohammad Jawed highlighted the stark contrast between the government's claims and the reality on the ground.

The Congress leader alleged that MPs even struggled to get tea in Parliament and cited "black-marketing" and inflated prices - Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 for a cylinder.

"...There is no doubt that there is a shortage...I am observing the Roza (fasting), but yesterday the subject of discussion in Parliament was that when MPs asked for tea or coffee in the Parliament canteen, they were informed that it was unavailable. And yet, you claim that there is no cause for panic. There are reports of black-marketing, with prices as high as Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 being demanded...," Jawed told ANI while questioning the government's handling of the situation.

India LPG Cylinder News: 741 LPG cylinders seized in Chhattisgarh

(Reported by news agency PTI)

As many as 741 LPG cylinders were seized from 102 locations across Chhattisgarh as part of a crackdown on hoarding and black marketing amid the West Asia crisis, an official has said.

Teams from the Food Department and district administration have been conducting surprise inspections at suspected locations to curb hoarding of domestic LPG cylinders, an official release stated on Friday.

"So far, 741 cylinders have been seized from 102 places across the state. Raipur district recorded the highest number of seizures with 392 domestic LPG cylinders confiscated, followed by Bilaspur district, where 130 cylinders were seized," it said.

It stated that five LPG bottling plants are operational in the state, comprising two each run by Indian Oil Corporation and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, and one by Bharat Petroleum Corporation.

LPG Crisis in India: Crisis formulated by BJP, says Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge

(Reported by news agency ANI)

Karnataka Information Technology and Biotechnology Minister Priyank Kharge on Saturday referred to the ongoing shortage of commercial LPG cylinders in the country as a crisis formulated by the BJP.
The Karnataka Minister also alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi compromised the foreign policy of the country to appease his industrial friends.

"This crisis has been formulated by the BJP. This is nothing but a disastrous policy by the central government. What was the need for Mr Modi to visit Israel two days prior to the war? What did he achieve? He went and got himself a non-existent award from Israel and he failed to condemn the attack on the Iranian leadership....Where is Mr Jaishankar? Where is Mr Hardeep Singh Puri? Where is the Prime Minister? In the last ten days of this war, how many times has Mr Modi spoken about this? ... If there is no crisis, why is the Essential Services Maintenance Act invoked?... I think the Prime Minister has compromised the foreign policy, the interest of the nation, just to please two-three industrial friends of his," Kharge told ANI.

LPG Crisis in India: 524 stolen LPG cylinders recovered in Jhansi

Police in Jhansi have recovered 524 stolen LPG cylinders worth more than Rs 17 lakh and arrested seven people in connection with the theft.

Senior superintendent of police BBGTS Murthy said officers detained Jawed (26), Amir (35), Hrithik (24) and Sumit (22) during a patrol at around 2.30am on Wednesday after a brief encounter near a gas godown on Gwalior Road. A handgun and cartridges were also recovered from the accused.

Police said Amir is a resident of Samthar, while the others are from Premnagar.

During questioning, investigators found that Hrithik and Jawed had planned to steal a truckload of LPG cylinders to clear an old debt of the truck owner. They allegedly struck a deal with Amir, who worked at Shiv Gas Agency in Samthar, to sell the cylinders for Rs 13 lakh.

India LPG Cylinder News: Cow dung cakes make comeback

(Reported by Ajay Sura/TNN)

With LPG cylinders becoming harder to obtain and refill delays increasing these days, many rural households in Haryana are turning once again to cow dung cakes, locally known as ‘Uple’ or ‘Kande’, to meet their daily cooking needs.

Kamla Nandal, a resident of Bohar village near Rohtak, said that for the past few years most villagers had shifted completely to LPG for cooking as cylinders were easily available and delivered on time by gas agencies. “Because of that, people had almost stopped preparing dung cakes. Cow dung was simply thrown in open areas and later used as manure in the fields,” she said.

However, the situation has changed in recent days due to disruptions in LPG supply. “Those who have livestock have started making dung cakes again. It takes about two days for them to dry completely and become ready for use as fuel,” Nandal added. Savitri Devi, another villager, said demand for dung cakes has surged suddenly, even among people from nearby towns who run small eateries. “A (depending on size). But for us, the first priority is to use the cow dung ourselves for cooking fuel,” she said.

LPG Gas Cylinder Shortage: No shortage of fuels anywhere in district, says Shimla DC amid LPG crunch

(News agency PTI)

The Deputy Commissioner of Shimla, Anupam Kashyap, on Friday chaired a review meeting on the supply of LPG, petrol and diesel and said there is no shortage of fuels anywhere in the district, with supplies continuing uninterrupted.


Amid reports of the West Asia conflict choking the supply of LPG cylinders in many parts of the country, Kashyap also appealed to the people to avoid unnecessary stockpiling and hoarding of these items.


About 14 vehicles carrying LPG cylinders were sent to all the subdivisions of the district on Friday, the deputy commissioner (DC) said.

“As many as 4,488 domestic gas cylinders were received today, of which 4,249 were dispatched to different parts of the district. Shimla district has 8,382 domestic gas cylinders as of now.


“Similarly, 521 commercial cylinders were dispatched today, with 499 still available for supply to hospitals and educational institutions on priority basis,” the DC said.

LPG Gas Cylinder Shortage: 100 LPG cylinders seized from black market sellers in Worli

(News agency ANI reported)

The Food Distribution Department cracked down on a gang involved in the black marketing of domestic and commercial gas cylinders in the Worli area and seized a large stock, officials said on Saturday.

The joint operation, conducted by the Controller Food Rationing Office squad and officers from Office No. 21, targeted illegal stockpiling and selling of gas cylinders at inflated prices in the 'Suraj Vallabhdas Chawl' area on Ganpatrao Kadam Road at Worli Naka.

During the operation, authorities seized 64 filled 4-kg and 19 filled 12-kg cylinders of Super Gas Company, along with six filled and 58 empty 5-kg cylinders of HP Gas Company. Additionally, 25 empty cylinders of various sizes - 12 kg, 4 kg, and 2 kg - were seized.

This action comes after LPG cylinder prices have been increased across the nation, largely attributed to disruptions in supply chains following the escalating West Asia conflict.

LPG Gas Cylinder Shortage: In Punjab, 60-yr-old man dies of cardiac arrest after 3 hrs in LPG queue

A 60-year-old man died of cardiac arrest after standing in an LPG queue for three hours in Sehna of Punjab’s Barnala district on Friday.
Bhushan Kumar was serial number 25 among 125 customers and had queued up at 5am. At 7.50am, he collapsed. He was taken to hospital but died on the way. This is the first such death in Punjab since the energy crisis began.