LPG Shortage Fear: Govt Plans 7kg Cylinders?

The ongoing conflict between US-Israel and Iran has disrupted the global energy supply chain. India is facing a severe shortage of LPG forcing many hostels, temple kitchens, restaurants and dhabas to shut down.

In the wake of such a situation, the Centre is contemplating fresh measures to tackle the domestic LPG availability. The Centre has asked the oil marketing companies to explore the possibility of supplying 7kg or 10kg LPG refills, instead of the customary 14.2 kg cylinders as it could help the existing LPG stocks to last long and also help supply the LPG to more households. Also, the Centre also suggested that the waiting period for booking a refill be extended from 25 to 30 days from the date of delivery.

These measures are being considered given the slow movement of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. Daily transits of oil tankers have fallen from over 100 to just 5-6, leading to a hike in global oil prices and triggering a major energy supply disruption. The fresh measures have been suggested to avoid shortage, minimize pilferage and ensure equitable distribution.

However, the consumers and LPG dealers are unhappy with the measures. While many household consumers complained that reducing the LPG quantity in the refill and at the same time extending the booking time would push them into more trouble, LPG dealers feared that they might have to face allegations of LPG theft, as they already hearing to complaints of lack of transparency in the LPG refill delivery.

The dealers also expressed apprehension over increasing operational pressure if more small cylinders need to be transported. Amidst the constraint on LPG supply, many dealers are already hearing to complaints of dissatisfaction from the consumers. However, no government official reacted on this reports.