Background on Gas Cylinder Prices
The price of a 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinder was hiked due to geopolitical disruptions to fuel supply. This increase has now been compounded by a recent decision from oil marketing companies to raise the prices of non-subsidised domestic LPG gas cylinders by 60 rupees across metropolitan cities in India.
Recent Developments
The price for a 14.2 kilogram gas cylinder has been increased from 853 rupees to 913 rupees in Delhi. New rates for LPG cylinders in other major cities include 912.50 rupees in Mumbai, 939 rupees in Kolkata, and 928.50 rupees in Chennai. Additionally, rates for commercial LPG gas cylinders have seen an increase of 115 rupees.
In response to the rising prices and to curb hoarding, the Indian government has extended the LPG booking period from 21 days to 25 days. This measure aims to stabilize supply amidst growing concerns over availability.
Impact on the Hospitality Sector
An acute shortage of commercial LPG cylinders is disrupting the hospitality sector in cities such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. Reports indicate that at least 20 percent of the hotels and restaurants in Mumbai have had to shut down temporarily due to the LPG cylinder shortage.
AHAR – the Indian Hotels and Restaurants Association, has expressed concerns, stating, “Despite being a basic operational requirement for restaurants and hotels, commercial cylinders are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain through proper channels.” This sentiment underscores the challenges faced by the industry as it grapples with supply issues.
Government Response
In light of these challenges, the Government of India has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to ensure the supply of natural gas. Officials have emphasized that the supply of natural gas must be treated as a priority allocation, ensuring that it is maintained at one hundred percent of the average past six-month average gas consumption.
Looking Ahead
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact impact of ongoing geopolitical conflicts on future gas cylinder prices. Observers are closely monitoring the situation as it develops, with many hoping for a resolution that stabilizes both prices and supply in the near future.
