LPG supply disruption triggers concern across Punjab amid West Asia conflict

A disruption in LPG supply has triggered concern among consumers and businesses across parts of Punjab amid the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict, with reports of reduced domestic cylinder supplies, suspension of commercial gas distribution in some areas and technical glitches in booking systems adding to the uncertainty.

Hoshiarpur

In Hoshiarpur, the supply of commercial gas cylinders has been completely stopped while domestic LPG supply to dealers has reportedly been put under a quota system and has been reduced by nearly half by petroleum companies. Meanwhile, panic booking has increased the bookings manifold.

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According to a local LPG dealer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, the situation has been aggravated by technical problems in booking systems. Consumers are facing difficulties while booking cylinders through IVRS, missed call service, and WhatsApp booking, which has created panic among many households waiting for refills.

However, the dealer said that booking and payment through UPI-based apps were functioning normally, and consumers were being advised to use these digital platforms for placing orders.

The disruption has hit the hospitality sector particularly hard. Hotels, caterers, and restaurants that rely heavily on commercial LPG cylinders are struggling to continue operations due to the complete halt in supply.

Shyam Sunder Sharma, owner of Hotel Shiraz Regency in Hoshiarpur, said many establishments had been forced to adopt temporary alternatives. “Due to non-availability of commercial gas cylinders, hotels and caterers are using diesel bhatties for cooking, while electric geysers are being used to heat water for various purposes,” he said.

Ludhiana

Restaurants were facing the heat in Ludhiana on Thursday. In the coming days, they are going to shift cooking to tandoors.

Meanwhile, domestic users complained about cylinders not being booked.

Amritsar

No immediate panic or queues for domestic use LPG was reported in Amritsar on Thursday. The DC met with agency suppliers to ensure adequate supply. However, people faced issues with online booking portals.

In several areas, LPG cylinders delivered on Wednesday and Thursday were found to be underweight with seals opened.

Restaurants had supplies for 2-3 days, but most were considering resorting to traditional tandoors and induction cookers.

Abohar

Domestic users in Abohar had no problem till Wednesday evening as booking and supply was normal. However, consumers complained that online booking software was not functioning on Thursday. Manual booking was unavailable as well. Distributors, meanwhile say there is no shortage.