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LPG Shortage Fuels Black Market Amid Global Energy Crisis
14 Mar
Summary
- 57% of households report LPG cylinder delivery delays recently.
- Black market adds Rs 100-500 premium per cylinder.
- 53% expect future supply disruptions, government prioritizes domestic use.

Amidst escalating global energy concerns due to US-Iran-Israel tensions, Indian households are experiencing substantial delays in LPG cylinder deliveries and a rise in black marketing. A survey indicated that 57% of consumers faced delivery delays in the past week, with an additional charge of Rs 100 to Rs 500 per cylinder becoming common due to middlemen exploiting shortages.
Approximately 53% of respondents were warned by dealers about potential future supply disruptions. This situation arises as the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for 20% of global oil, has seen disruptions, impacting India's energy imports. While the government assures adequate stocks and prioritizes domestic LPG, it has also increased the refill booking gap to 25 days, and is expanding piped natural gas supply.