LPG Shortage: LPG Shortage Raises Concern in India, Govt Pushes PNG Shift Amid Hoarding Crackdown

Despite continuous action against hoarders, the shortage of LPG cylinders across India remains a matter of concern. The government has now advised states to accelerate the shift from LPG to PNG (Piped Natural Gas) for both domestic and commercial users. In Delhi, the impact is clearly visible. After a popular eatery in Paharganj shut down due to lack of gas, the well-known Matthew Cafe in RK Puram has also temporarily closed, putting up a notice that reads “No Gas, No Cylinder.” Several restaurants are now operating using traditional tandoors, coal, or diesel furnaces, offering only limited menu items. Authorities continue to take strict action against hoarders. In Azamgarh, a gas agency owner and spouse were arrested for illegally stockpiling 642 cylinders. While these actions have reduced panic to some extent, long queues for LPG cylinders are still being reported. The central government has urged faster adoption of PNG connections and has offered incentives to states—those performing well may see their commercial LPG quota increased from 20% to 30%. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has stated that there is no actual shortage of LPG and has warned people against rumors. It added that refinery production has already increased by 40%. Meanwhile, energy supply concerns are linked to disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz. An oil tanker carrying 80,800 tons of crude oil has reached Mundra Port from Fujairah Port. However, around 22 Indian vessels, including several carrying LPG, are still stuck in the region.

Go to Source