LPG Cylinder Shortage Crisis in Delhi & Across India

India is currently experiencing disruptions in the supply of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) cylinders, particularly commercial cylinders used by restaurants, hotels, canteens, caterers and other kitchens. While domestic cooking gas for households remains largely stable, restaurants and commercial kitchens are facing shortages due to supply chain disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Root Causes of the Shortage

Ongoing conflict and tensions in West Asia (Middle East)—especially linked to disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy transit point—has slowed the flow of LPG and LNG (liquified natural gas) to South Asia.
As a precautionary measure, the Indian government has prioritized domestic LPG supply for households and extended the minimum booking period from 21 to 25 days to prevent hoarding.
Imported LPG supply interruptions—given India’s dependency on Middle Eastern fuel imports—have caused commercial supply chains to tighten, pushing more LPG cylinders toward household use and essential sectors.

Impact on Kitchens & Restaurants

Restaurants and Commercial Users Struggling

Restaurants and hotels in Delhi are facing operational strain due to the unavailability and rising costs of commercial LPG cylinders.
Some establishments have had to cut menus or suspend services that require longer cooking times or heavy gas usage.
Eateries with PNG (piped natural gas) connections are slightly better off, but those relying solely on LPG are in distress.

Specific Local Disruptions

Lawyers’ canteen at the Delhi High Court has temporarily stopped serving main course meals due to lack of LPG, impacting daily food services for court staff and visitors.
Long queues have formed outside gas agencies in major cities like Delhi, Noida, Lucknow and Bhubaneswar as customers rush to secure cylinders.
In Hyderabad, black‑market cylinder trading has surged, with prices at ₹3,000‑₹4,000—far above official rates—impacting smaller eateries.
Smaller towns are adopting alternate cooking methods like wood‑fired stoves in places such as Hisar, Haryana due to commercial LPG shortages.

Broader Effects on Daily Life

School and hostel kitchens in some regions are forced to alter menus or switch cooking methods.
Street food vendors and local food carts are struggling to maintain regular operations due to limited gas supply.
Even where domestic LPG deliveries continue, extended booking intervals and panic bookings have created delays and resource allocation challenges.