LPG Shortage Hits Indian Cities as Global Crisis Disrupts Supply

India is witnessing growing concerns over a shortage of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) across several major cities, with restaurants, hotels, and food businesses among the worst affected. The supply disruption has been linked to rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which have disturbed global gas shipments and energy routes.

The shortage is being felt in cities such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi, where commercial LPG cylinders used by restaurants and hostels have become difficult to obtain. Many eateries have reported reduced supplies and some have even temporarily shut operations due to the lack of cooking gas.

According to industry associations, if the situation continues, a significant number of restaurants could face closure because commercial kitchens depend heavily on LPG cylinders for daily cooking.

Impact on Restaurants and Daily Life

The shortage has already started affecting food services. In several places, restaurants and hostels have reduced menu options to save gas. Items that require longer cooking times—such as chapatis, dosas, and certain curries—have been removed from menus in some establishments.

In a few cities, hotels and restaurants have warned that they may be forced to close temporarily if new supplies do not arrive soon. Industry groups say the hospitality sector could face job losses if the crisis continues for a longer period.

The shortage has also affected other sectors. Auto-rickshaw drivers who rely on LPG fuel, as well as catering services for weddings and events, are reporting operational disruptions due to limited availability of gas cylinders.

Why the LPG Shortage Happened

The main reason behind the crisis is the ongoing conflict in West Asia, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy shipping route. Disruptions in this region have slowed the movement of oil and gas supplies, creating uncertainty in global energy markets.

India imports a large portion of its LPG from the Middle East, so any disruption in that region quickly impacts domestic supply and prices.

Government Response

The central government has started monitoring LPG supplies closely and is taking steps to stabilise the situation. Authorities have asked states to track availability daily and prevent hoarding or black-marketing of cylinders.

Officials have also indicated that household LPG supply is being prioritised, while efforts are underway to secure additional imports and boost domestic production to ease the shortage.

Current Situation

While disruptions have been reported mainly in commercial LPG supply, officials say domestic households are unlikely to face immediate shortages. However, the situation continues to be monitored closely as global energy tensions remain uncertain.