Commercial LPG Prices Raised From June 1; 19-Kg Cylinder Dearer by Rs 42 in Delhi
Commercial LPG cylinder prices have been increased across the country from June 1, adding to operating costs for restaurants, hotels, caterers and other businesses that depend heavily on cooking gas for daily operations.
Following the latest revision, the price of a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder in Delhi has gone up by Rs 42 and will now cost Rs 3,113.50. In Kolkata, the increase is steeper at Rs 53.50, taking the retail price to Rs 3,255.50.
Oil marketing companies have also raised the price of 5-kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders by Rs 11. In Delhi, these cylinders will now be available at Rs 821.50.
However, there is relief for households, as domestic LPG cylinder prices remain unchanged.
Commercial Users to Feel the Impact
The hike is expected to directly affect commercial establishments such as eateries, hotels, bakeries and catering businesses, many of which rely on multiple LPG cylinders every month. Higher fuel costs could add pressure to operating expenses, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses.
The revision comes at a time when the government is focusing on strengthening India’s fuel security and ensuring uninterrupted availability of petroleum products.
Government Expanding Strategic Fuel Reserves
Last week, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said efforts were underway to build larger strategic reserves of both LPG and crude oil.
Speaking during an inter-ministerial briefing on May 29, Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma said the government had directed oil marketing companies to maintain a minimum LPG reserve equivalent to 30 days of demand.
She added that similar efforts were being made to enhance crude oil reserves as part of broader energy security planning.
The government has emphasised that these measures are aimed at ensuring adequate supplies during emergencies and reducing the risk of disruptions in fuel availability.
No Fuel Shortage, Says Government
Amid reports of panic buying and hoarding in some regions, the government has maintained that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, LPG or natural gas in the country.
According to Sharma, fuel inventories remain healthy, refineries are operating at optimum levels and domestic LPG production is at record highs, reaching nearly 90 DMT per day.
She also stated that no LPG distributorships had reported supply shortages, assuring consumers that deliveries were continuing normally across the country.
Spike in Fuel Sales Raises Concerns
The ministry has, however, observed unusual spikes in fuel consumption in several districts. Officials attributed the increase partly to seasonal agricultural demand and bulk purchases by consumers.
According to government data, overall fuel sales have witnessed growth of more than 30 per cent, while 14 districts have recorded over 100 per cent growth in petrol sales.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent artificial shortages caused by panic buying or stockpiling.
Crackdown on Hoarding and Diversion
To curb illegal diversion and hoarding of fuel products, enforcement agencies have intensified inspections across the country.
Officials said more than 6,500 raids targeting LPG-related operations were conducted within four days, resulting in five FIRs and two arrests.
In addition, nearly 900 inspections were carried out at retail fuel outlets over a two-day period. These operations led to the seizure of 417 litres of petrol and more than 75,000 litres of diesel, along with 12 FIRs and 15 arrests.
The government has urged citizens not to be influenced by rumours regarding fuel availability and has appealed for responsible consumption. Officials have reiterated that adequate stocks are available and that measures are in place to ensure the smooth supply of LPG cylinders and other petroleum products across the country.
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