LPG shortage: Middlemen, gas agencies push ₹900 LPG cylinders to ₹2,800, reveals survey

A recent survey has revealed that more than 50% of Indian households are facing significant disruptions in their liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply, forcing many to seek out alternatives, including the black market. The study highlights that middlemen and gas agencies are inflating the price of LPG cylinders, with costs soaring from ₹900 to as high as ₹2,800. This alarming trend has raised concerns about the accessibility and affordability of cooking gas for ordinary citizens. In response to the ongoing crisis, the Indian government is taking steps to ensure that LPG is prioritized for domestic use and is extending the intervals for rebooking cylinders. The situation has sparked discussions about the need for better regulatory measures and support systems to prevent exploitation by intermediaries, ensuring that households can access cooking gas at fair prices. These developments come at a time when energy affordability is critical for many families, underscoring the need for systemic improvements in gas distribution and pricing mechanisms.