LPG Crunch Continues, Supplies Rationalised for Commercial Users

Srinagar — LPG supply crunch continued for the third straight week on Friday, but there was some easing in bookings for refills, a sign of things slowly crawling towards normalcy.

Oil marketing companies have rationalised supplies for commercial users as priority is being given to domestic consumers. Restaurants, hotels and commercial establishments have been asked to limit their LPG consumption and explore alternative fuel sources where possible.

The crunch is primarily attributed to the disruption in global LPG supply chains following the conflict in the Middle East, which has severely impacted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — a key transit route for LPG tankers bound for India.

India imports a significant portion of its LPG from Gulf countries, and the ongoing hostilities have led to a sharp reduction in available cargoes. Domestic refineries are operating at full capacity but are unable to fully compensate for the shortfall in imports.

The government has already increased LPG prices by Rs 60 per cylinder, with officials indicating that further hikes may be necessary if the supply situation does not improve.

In Kashmir, where LPG is a primary cooking fuel for most households, the crunch has caused significant inconvenience. Long queues have been seen at distribution centres, and many consumers report waiting over a week for refills.

Officials have urged the public to use LPG judiciously and avoid hoarding. "We are working to ensure uninterrupted supply to domestic consumers. The situation is expected to ease once alternative shipping routes are established," a senior oil company official said.