New LPG Cylinder Booking Rules Explained: Waiting Period for Urban and Rural Areas

LPG Cylinder Rules: The common man’s kitchen budget has taken a hit recently due to rising cooking gas prices and stricter cylinder booking rules implemented by the central government. Naturally, this has created a sense of panic among consumers across the country regarding gas availability. However, the Petroleum Ministry has clearly stated that there is no shortage of fuel in the country.

Revised Booking Rules for Urban and Rural Areas

The gap between booking two successive cylinders has been significantly increased. Clarifying the government’s stance in Parliament, the Union Minister stated that consumers living in urban areas must wait at least 25 days before booking a second cylinder. For rural consumers, the rules are even stricter, mandating a minimum gap of 45 days between two bookings.

Reason Behind the Strict Measures

According to the government, this step has been taken primarily to curb the black marketing of cooking gas. Strict surveillance is being maintained to ensure subsidized domestic cylinders are not illegally used in hotels and restaurants. Commercial gas supplies have also been brought under certain regulations. However, regular consumers have been assured that their cylinders will be delivered within two and a half days of booking.

Global Crisis and Domestic Production

Despite the ongoing military conflicts in West Asia causing an unprecedented global fuel crisis, India remains largely unaffected. India imports about 60 percent of its LPG requirements, mostly routed through the Strait of Hormuz. Although transport disruptions in that region slightly impacted imports, the government has boosted domestic production. Following a central directive on March 8, internal LPG production has increased by 28 percent. India currently buys crude oil from 40 different nations, and LNG shipments continue to arrive daily via alternative routes.

Impact of Price Hike

The price of cooking gas has already been increased this month. In Kolkata, the cost of an LPG cylinder has gone up by Rs 60, bringing the current price to Rs 939. Despite the price hike, the Centre insists that there is ample stock of petrol, diesel, kerosene, and LPG to meet the nation’s needs.