Domestic LPG cylinder prices for households remain unchanged today, offering some relief to consumers despite volatility in global energy markets due to tensions in the Middle East. But commercial cooking gas has become expensive for the second time since the war between Iran and the US and Israel began in late February.
First revision ₹144 in the price of a 19 kg commercial liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder was announced in March, followed by a further price hike of approx. ₹200 on April 1, increasing costs for restaurants, hotels and others.
The rise in prices comes at a time of energy shortages. A key trigger was disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy route. Uncertainty around this shipping corridor globally has tightened supply and increased costs, contributing to higher LPG prices.
India imports nearly 60% of its LPG and half of its natural gas needs, with the Middle East supplying the bulk of these fuels. Now, with up to 90% of LPG imports cut off, the pressure has become real and imminent for the nation, Mint had earlier reported.
No new increase in domestic LPG rates
In particular, the government increased the prices of domestic LPG cylinders by 14.2 kg ₹60 last month but no rate changes have been introduced this month.
Meanwhile, in the national capital, Delhi, the cost of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder has been increased by ₹194 and from ₹195 in Mumbai.
Citi-wise updated domestic and commercial LPG prices on April 4
CityDomestic (14.2 Kg)Commercial (19 Kg)New Delhi ₹913.00 ₹2,078.50 ( +194.00 )Kolkata ₹939.00 ₹2,208.50 ( +220.00 ) Mumbai ₹912.50 ₹2,031.00 ( +195.00 )Chennai ₹928.50 ₹2,246.50 ( +203.00 )Gurgaon ₹921.50 ₹2,096.50 ( +195.00 )Noida ₹910.50 ₹2,078.50 ( +194.00 )Bengaluru ₹915.50 ₹2,161.00 ( +203.00 ) Bhubaneswar ₹939.00 ₹2,245.00 ( +216.00 )Chandigarh ₹922.50 ₹2,099.50 (+195.00) Hyderabad ₹965.00 ₹2,320.50 (+215.00) Jaipur ₹916.50 ₹2,106.00 ( +193.00 ) Lucknow ₹950.50 ₹2,201.00 ( +194.00 )Patna ₹1,002.50 ₹2,353.50 (+220.00)
The latest changes in commercial LPG prices are part of the monthly price update by state-run oil marketing companies, including Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum. These companies regularly adjust the prices of ATF and LPG canisters based on movements in the global energy markets.
International oil prices have shot up nearly 50% since the start of the war due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, causing energy shortages, especially for import-dependent countries.
Jet fuel prices are rising
Meanwhile, Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices in major metro cities were also revised on April 1. The price increase is in line with the recent global increase in jet fuel prices. These revisions are based on international benchmarks and the exchange rate.
In Delhi, the price of ATF is now per ₹1,04,927 per kilolitre, while in Kolkata it stands at ₹1,09,450 per kilogram. Mumbai recorded ATF prices at ₹98,247 per kiloliter and Chennai at ₹1,09,873 per kilolitre.
Indian Oil does not recommend panic booking
Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), the country’s largest oil company, has advised its customers to avoid panic booking and hoarding of LPG cylinders in view of the recent geopolitical tensions.
The oil company also assured that LPG supply in India remains stable and adequate, adding that domestic availability of LPG continues to be the top priority of the oil company.
Read also | The government intervened after the LPG diversion triggered a near-crisis in the pharmaceutical supply chainRead also | IndianOil advises against panic booking of LPG cylinders amid global tensions
In a statement, IndianOil said it supplies around 28 lakh LPG cylinders daily and nearly 87% of refill bookings are done through digital platforms. For LPG cylinder refill booking, customers are advised to use digital modes like SMS and IVRS for LPG refill booking.
“India’s LPG supply remains stable, adequate and under close watch, despite ongoing geopolitical developments affecting global energy markets. Domestic LPG (supply) continues to be a top priority,” PTI quoted the company as saying.
