LPG Cylinder Shortage in India: Akhilesh Yadav Alleges Black Marketing as Supply Concerns Rise

Concerns over the availability of LPG cylinders have intensified across several parts of India, with political leaders raising questions about supply management and reports emerging of black marketing in some regions. The situation has triggered debate as households, restaurants, and institutions closely monitor cooking gas availability.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav has accused authorities of failing to ensure proper supply of LPG cylinders. He alleged that black marketing of cylinders is taking place and urged the government to take responsibility for maintaining adequate supply for citizens.

Speaking on the issue, Yadav claimed that people are facing difficulties in obtaining LPG cylinders in certain areas. He also stated that party workers would highlight locations where consumers are standing in long queues to obtain cooking gas.

Meanwhile, government officials have attempted to reassure citizens that LPG supply remains stable across the country. Authorities said oil companies are currently delivering around 50 lakh LPG cylinders every day and that there is no need for panic among consumers.

Officials also confirmed that two LPG cargo vessels, Nanda Devi and Shivalik, carrying approximately 92,700 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas, have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz and are on their way to India. The shipment is expected to help strengthen domestic supply.

According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the vessel Shivalik is scheduled to arrive at Mundra port on March 16, while Nanda Devi is expected to reach Indian shores on March 17. The arrival of these shipments is expected to ease concerns about LPG availability in several states.

The movement of these vessels gained attention because tensions in West Asia had disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy transit corridors. Diplomatic engagement helped ensure safe passage for the Indian LPG carriers through the strategic waterway.

Despite official assurances, supply concerns have already started affecting various sectors. Restaurants, hostels, and some companies have reported disruptions in kitchen operations due to uncertainty about future LPG availability.

Several private schools in Delhi have also warned that lunch services for students may be affected if supply tightens further. Some shopping malls in the national capital have asked restaurants operating within their premises to use gas conservatively and manage operations with reduced consumption.

The fears surrounding LPG supply have also led to a surge in demand for alternative cooking appliances. A recent survey indicated that around 23 percent of households purchased induction cooktops as a backup option amid concerns about possible supply disruptions.

Retailers across several cities have reported unusually high demand for electric cooking appliances in recent days, with some stores selling far more units than usual.

Authorities have also increased vigilance against hoarding, rumours, and black marketing of LPG cylinders. Officials warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found involved in illegal trading or stockpiling of cooking gas cylinders.

As the situation continues to evolve, the government has urged citizens to avoid panic buying and rely on official updates regarding LPG supply and distribution across the country.