Delhi LPG Booking: 25 Day Rule Triggers Cylinder Rush Amid Middle East Crisis
LPG Booking: Residents in Delhi have started panic booking cooking gas cylinders after the government introduced a new rule requiring a minimum 25-day gap between LPG refills. The sudden change, combined with rising tensions in the Middle East, has created concern among consumers about possible supply disruptions.
The rule was introduced by the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas after the government invoked the Essential Commodities Act to protect domestic fuel supply. The decision comes as the conflict between the United States and Iran continues to affect global energy markets.
Gas agencies across Delhi have reported a sudden rise in calls and bookings from customers. Many households are trying to book cylinders early or request extra cylinders because they fear possible shortages in the coming weeks.
New LPG Booking Rule Explained
Earlier, customers could book a refill after 21 days of their previous booking. However, the government has now increased this waiting period to 25 days.
Officials say the rule was introduced mainly to prevent panic buying, hoarding, and black-marketing of LPG cylinders. The government also wants to ensure that domestic users receive priority supply during the current global crisis.
Despite these assurances, the announcement has triggered anxiety among consumers who worry that international tensions could affect LPG imports.
Customers Rush to Gas Agencies
According to several Delhi-based LPG retailers, the demand for cylinders has increased sharply over the past few days. Many customers are visiting gas agencies personally or calling repeatedly to secure a booking.
One LPG distributor in central Delhi said that several customers had already placed bookings a few days earlier but were unable to receive their cylinders because of the new 25-day rule.
Another distributor explained that customers are asking if they can get two cylinders at once or receive deliveries earlier than scheduled. However, agencies are required to follow the new rule strictly.
Even though the government has repeatedly stated that there is no shortage of LPG, the sudden increase in demand has created pressure on local distributors.
Supply Issues Reported in Some Areas
While there is no nationwide shortage, some LPG agencies in parts of West Delhi reported temporary supply problems.
A distributor in Kirti Nagar said that their agency usually receives about 350 cylinders daily from Haryana, but on one day they received none. As a result, they had to rely only on the previous day’s stock to meet demand.
These short-term disruptions have increased public anxiety, even though officials say that the overall supply situation remains stable.
India depends heavily on LPG imports, especially from Middle Eastern countries. Because of this, any tension in that region can affect supply and prices.
Impact on Restaurants and Commercial Users
The situation is also creating problems for restaurants and commercial establishments that depend heavily on LPG.
Some gas agencies have reportedly stopped supplying cylinders to commercial customers temporarily in order to prioritise domestic households.
Restaurant owners say this has made their operations difficult. Cooking in restaurants requires large quantities of LPG, and any disruption in supply can affect daily business.
A restaurant owner in Connaught Place said the problem has become more serious because coal-based tandoors are restricted in Delhi, leaving fewer alternatives for cooking.
As a result, many food businesses are worried that if the situation continues, they may face serious operational challenges.
Reports of Black Market Price Rise
Another concern is the rise of illegal black-market sales of LPG cylinders.
Some reports suggest that in certain areas cylinders are being sold at almost double the normal price. For example, a tea seller in South Delhi claimed that cylinders that usually cost around ₹1,100 are being sold for ₹2,000 in the black market.
Authorities say strict action will be taken against anyone involved in hoarding or illegal selling of LPG cylinders.
Government Assures Adequate Supply
Despite the panic among consumers, the government has assured citizens that sufficient LPG stocks are available and there is no need for panic buying.
Officials say the new 25-day rule is only a preventive measure to ensure fair distribution and to stop people from booking cylinders unnecessarily.
The government has also said it is closely monitoring global energy markets and will take further steps if required.
For now, consumers are advised to avoid panic booking and follow the official guidelines while ordering LPG cylinders.
Read more…LPG Cylinder Price Hiked by ₹60 in India
