LPG Shortage: Amid the ongoing Middle East crisis, shrinking domestic reserves, and reduced imports, state-owned oil companies are considering measures to conserve limited LPG supplies. According to media reports, one proposal under review is to supply only 10 kilograms of LPG in standard 14.2-kilogram cylinders for households. The aim of this move is to stretch available resources and ensure that LPG reaches a larger number of consumers.
How Many Days Will A 10 Kg Cylinder Last?
According to media reports, companies estimate that a standard 14.2 kg cylinder lasts 35-40 days for an average household. A 10 g refill could last a household for about a month, allowing available stock to reach more households during this time of shortage.
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Will Price Be Reduced?
As per reports, cylinders will receive a new sticker indicating underfilling. Prices will also be reduced proportionately. Bottling plants will also have to recalibrate their volume measurement systems, and this may require some regulatory approvals.
Companies are concerned that this sudden cut could lead to confusion, protests, and political opposition, especially with elections approaching in some key states. However, there are fears that the supply situation could worsen further next month, leaving companies with limited options.
Two ships arrived in India from the Strait of Hormuz last week, bringing a total of 92,700 tonnes of LPG, equivalent to about one day's national consumption. The limited resumption of supplies to commercial users has further pressured already depleted stocks.
Of India's daily LPG consumption of 93,500 tonnes; 86 per cent is used by households. In the first fortnight of March, overall consumption fell by 17 per cent, suggesting the impact extended beyond commercial and industrial users.
Meanwhile, two India-flagged LPG tankers are on their way to India and are expected to cross the Strait of Hormuz on Monday.