LPG Cylinder Shortage: Kerala CM Urges Centre to Ensure Supply Amid Crisis Fears

Concerns over the availability of commercial LPG cylinders have surfaced in several cities across India, prompting warnings from the hospitality sector and appeals from state governments for urgent intervention.

Amid growing anxiety about supply disruptions, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has urged the central government to take immediate steps to stabilise cooking gas availability and prices.

Kerala Flags Supply Concerns

The Kerala Chief Minister raised concerns about LPG supply in the state, warning that uncertainty in availability could affect both households and businesses.

He said the recent increase in LPG prices has added to the financial burden on families, while delays in cylinder availability are creating difficulties for consumers.

Reports from parts of Kerala suggest that domestic LPG booking intervals of up to 27 days are worsening the situation for households.

The Chief Minister also pointed out that hotels and restaurants could face serious operational challenges if supply disruptions continue, especially during Ramadan when demand for food services increases.

Hospitality Sector Faces Operational Challenges

Across several cities, including Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata, restaurants and hotels have reported delays in receiving commercial LPG cylinders.

Industry groups say the situation is forcing eateries to cut menu options, reduce cooking operations, or temporarily suspend services.

Hotel associations have warned that smaller establishments may struggle to remain operational if the supply situation does not improve quickly.

Alternative Cooking Methods Being Used

Some restaurants and community kitchens have started exploring alternative cooking methods to manage the situation.

In Hyderabad, certain eateries have reportedly shifted to firewood-based stoves to continue food preparation during supply shortages.

Similarly, kitchens serving large numbers of people, including religious and charitable food services, are preparing contingency plans using electric cookers, coal or firewood if LPG supply becomes more restricted.

Government Denies Nationwide Crisis

Despite these concerns, government officials have said that India is not facing a nationwide LPG shortage.

Authorities stated that refineries have increased LPG production by around 10 percent to stabilise supply and prevent disruptions.

Officials have also invoked provisions under the Essential Commodities Act to prevent hoarding and ensure smooth distribution.

Supply Disruptions Linked to Global Energy Tensions

Industry experts say the supply concerns are partly linked to global fuel market disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

Such disruptions can affect fuel logistics and availability, which may temporarily impact the supply chain.

Monitoring the Situation

Authorities have set up monitoring mechanisms to track fuel supply across different regions and ensure that priority sectors receive adequate gas.

Meanwhile, state governments and industry bodies continue to urge the Centre to maintain stable supplies so that households and businesses do not face prolonged disruptions.