Kolkata: Consumers stand in a queue to refill their liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders outside a gas dealer’s shop amid a supply shortage, in Kolkata, Thursday, March 12, 2026. (PTI Photo/Swapan Mahapatra)(PTI03_12_2026_000216A)
| Photo Credit:
Swapan Mahapatra
PG Gas Shortage Live Updates: India is experiencing a severe LPG shortage after over half its imports, primarily routed through the Strait of Hormuz, were disrupted by the conflict in West Asia.
To address the shortage, the government has increased domestic production, redirected C3–C4 hydrocarbon streams to raise LPG output by over 25%, and diversified imports to include the US, Norway, Canada, Algeria, and Russia.
In the past month, small businesses, restaurants, and hotels have used alternative fuels such as coal, kerosene, biomass, and RDF pellets to conserve LPG for priority users.
Hospitals, educational institutions, and critical commercial consumers are being prioritised. Restaurants will receive 20% of their average monthly LPG allocation.
State governments have been directed to identify beneficiaries to prevent hoarding and black-market activity. Meanwhile, corporate catering firms and institutional kitchens are shifting to induction systems, boilers and biofuels while adjusting menus. Some companies, including HCLTech, have advised employees to work from home, while gig workers and street vendors are facing financial strain due to supply disruptions.
- March 13, 2026 09:17
Russian ‘shadow fleet’ tankers divert to India after US waiver on crude imports
Russian ‘shadow fleet’ tankers divert to India after US waiver on crude imports
Russian tankers divert to India for crude imports after a US waiver, signaling potential relief in oil supplies.
- March 13, 2026 09:13
Iran says it will not close Strait of Hormuz but reserves right to protect security
Iran pledges Strait of Hormuz security, denies closure plans
Iran says it will not close the Strait of Hormuz, stressing freedom of navigation while asserting its right to ensure security amid U.S.-Iran tensions.
Published on March 13, 2026
