LPG crisis hits weddings, railways & gig workers; govt ramps up domestic production

India is experiencing an LPG crisis affecting households, restaurants, and street vendors in cities including Delhi, Chandigarh, Chennai, and Punjab. Residents are waiting in queues at gas agencies, while induction cooktop sales have increased by 200–300 per cent as families seek alternatives.

The shortage impacts 10,000 scheduled weddings in Punjab and Chandigarh and has forced street vendors to cease operations. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has directed food plazas to utilise electric cooking methods. To address the situation, the government has raised domestic LPG production by 25 per cent and formed a three-member committee to monitor commercial supplies.

The Petroleum Minister confirmed that petrol and diesel stocks remain stable. Additionally, Iran has allowed India-flagged tankers through the Strait of Hormuz following diplomatic talks. Government data indicates 70 per cent of crude oil imports now bypass the Strait, with domestic cooking gas prioritised for distribution to mitigate the impact on the public.