Iran Conflict Triggers Panic Buying of LPG Cylinders in India
Pune : The ongoing conflict involving Iran has led to panic buying of LPG cylinders in several parts of India, with long queues reported outside gas agencies and allegations of black marketing in some areas.
According to reports, consumers have been seen standing in long lines with empty cylinders at LPG distribution centres in many cities and towns, including parts of the National Capital Region and Uttar Pradesh. In a widely shared video from Sitapur district, hundreds of residents were seen waiting outside an LPG agency for cylinder refills.
Similar rushes have also been reported in cities such as Hyderabad, Ranchi, Kolkata and parts of Goa, where consumers have rushed to book cylinders amid fears of supply disruption.
The sudden demand is linked to concerns over the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The situation has raised fears about possible disruptions to shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global route for oil and gas transportation. India imports nearly two-thirds of its LPG requirement, and around 80 per cent of these imports pass through this route.
Amid the panic, some consumers have claimed that domestic LPG cylinders are being sold in the black market for as much as ₹1,500 due to limited availability at official agencies.
However, government officials have denied any nationwide shortage of LPG. They stated that the rush is mainly due to panic bookings rather than an actual supply crisis and assured that the country currently has adequate LPG stocks.
To prevent hoarding, authorities have introduced booking restrictions. Consumers with a single cylinder can now book a refill after 21 days, while those with double cylinders must wait 30 days before placing a new order. Officials have urged people not to panic and assured that LPG supplies remain stable.
