LPG Gas Cylinder Shortage Hits Delhi and Beyond

Key moments

On March 25, 2026, a significant shortage of LPG gas cylinders has been reported in Delhi, India, leading to widespread protests by members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The situation has escalated as residents across the city and the country are forced to stand in long queues to secure a single gas cylinder, with prices soaring between ₹5000 and ₹6000.

The immediate circumstances surrounding this crisis have raised concerns among citizens and officials alike. AAP MLA Atishi highlighted the severity of the situation, stating, “Today, across the country, long queues are forming for a single gas cylinder.” Another MLA, Sanjeev Jha, expressed that “there is devastation across the country and people are not getting gas cylinders,” reflecting the widespread frustration and urgency felt by many.

The shortage is not limited to Delhi; it has also impacted the tourism sector in Meghalaya, where hotels and restaurants are scaling down operations due to a lack of commercial LPG. The hospitality sector has warned that prolonged shortages could adversely affect tourist experiences, with 1.6 million tourist footfalls recorded last year. Kuldeep Kumar, another AAP MLA, noted the challenges faced by families, stating, “People need to organise ‘bhandara(s)’ and prepare fasting meals at home, but there are no cylinders.”

This crisis is linked to geopolitical issues affecting imports from the Middle East, particularly the disruption of LPG supply due to the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz. In response, the Indian government has mandated a transition from LPG to piped natural gas (PNG) in areas where it is available. Households will receive a three-month window to switch to PNG once notified, failing which their LPG supply may be discontinued.

Officials have indicated that this transition aims to reduce dependence on imported LPG, especially in light of ongoing geopolitical energy crises. The government is also pushing for a rapid expansion of natural gas pipelines across India to alleviate future shortages. However, the immediate effects of the current crisis are being felt acutely, with essential services like hospitals prioritized for available LPG stocks.

As the situation develops, reactions from various political entities continue to emerge. AAP leaders have been vocal in their criticism of the central government, with Atishi stating, “Narendra Modi Ne Kiya Surrender, Gayab Hua Gas Cylinder,” emphasizing the perceived failure of the government to manage the crisis effectively.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term solutions the government plans to implement to address the LPG shortage. As protests continue and citizens voice their frustrations, the urgency for a resolution becomes increasingly critical.