LPG crisis: Delhi restaurateur shuts shop, says black marketeers asking ‘Rs 5000+++’ for gas cylinders

The ongoing LPG crisis is taking a toll on India’s hotel and restaurant sector, with many establishments opting for partial closure while others are cutting down their menus.

Amid the crisis, a Delhi restaurateur took to social media alleging that black marketeers are demanding exorbitant prices for gas cylinders.

“We are shutting down too now — gas is finished. Black marketeers are now asking for Rs 5000+++ for gas cylinders. If there is no supply for commercial cylinders, how do they have it in the black market? That is the big question. Where are the so-called ED/CBI? Who is the babu or neta backing this black marketing?” wrote Gagandeep Singh Sapra, who runs a restaurant in Delhi.




Amid the ongoing war in West Asia, a shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has disrupted kitchens across India.

According to a PTI report, irregular LPG supply has affected kitchens across the national capital, with many restaurants left with stocks that may last only a day or two. Several eateries fear temporary closure and are concerned about paying staff wages. Industry representatives say many establishments are trying to manage the situation through adjustments.

Meanwhile, the Centre on Wednesday advised all states and Union Territories to monitor LPG supplies daily, take strict action against violators, curb rumour-mongering, and maintain law and order amid public concerns about restricted LPG availability in the domestic market due to the widening West Asia crisis, officials said.

India consumes about 31.3 million tonnes of LPG annually. Around 87 per cent of this is used in the domestic sector, primarily household kitchens, while the rest is consumed by commercial establishments such as hotels and restaurants.

Of the total requirement, about 62 per cent is met through imports.

The US-Israel attacks on Iran and Tehran’s retaliation have led to the shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime route through which India receives 85–90 per cent of its LPG imports from West Asian nations, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar.