Key moments
In a developing crisis, Delhi is grappling with a severe shortage of LPG gas cylinders, prompting widespread protests from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). As of March 25, 2026, residents are facing unprecedented challenges, with long queues forming across the city as people struggle to secure essential fuel supplies.
Reports indicate that the price of LPG cylinders in Delhi has skyrocketed, with costs now ranging between ₹5000 to ₹6000. AAP leaders, including Atishi and Sanjeev Jha, have voiced their concerns, stating, “Today, across the country, long queues are forming for a single gas cylinder,” highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The crisis is not limited to Delhi; it has also severely impacted the tourism sector in Meghalaya, where hotels and restaurants are scaling down operations due to a lack of commercial LPG. With approximately 1.6 million tourist footfalls recorded last year, the hospitality industry warns that prolonged shortages could significantly affect tourist experiences.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the government has mandated a transition from LPG to piped natural gas (PNG) in regions where it is available. Households will be given a three-month window to switch to PNG once notified, with the threat of LPG supply discontinuation looming for those who do not comply.
This shift is part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on imported LPG, particularly in light of geopolitical tensions affecting supplies from the Middle East. The blockage of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted LPG imports, exacerbating the current supply crisis.
Officials are pushing for a rapid expansion of natural gas pipelines across India to mitigate future shortages. However, essential services such as hospitals in Meghalaya are being prioritized for available LPG stocks, raising concerns about the impact on public health and safety.
As the situation unfolds, AAP leaders have expressed their frustration, with Kuldeep Kumar stating, “People need to organise ‘bhandara(s)’ and prepare fasting meals at home, but there are no cylinders.” The urgency of the crisis is palpable, with citizens demanding immediate action from the government.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact duration of the shortages and the effectiveness of the government’s proposed solutions. As protests continue and the public’s frustration grows, the need for a resolution to the LPG gas cylinder shortage becomes increasingly critical.
