On May 1, new LPG rules will likely tighten the booking and delivery systems across India as fuel prices continue to rise. With domestic LPG cylinder prices already up by ₹60 last month, many are feeling the pinch.
The government, alongside oil marketing companies, has been adjusting prices regularly. Just last month, the price of a 14.2 kg domestic cylinder increased, following a similar trend for commercial cylinders. This comes on the heels of geopolitical tensions that have been disrupting energy markets.
Key facts about the new rules:
- Booking intervals for LPG have now increased in both urban and rural areas.
- OTP-based delivery is mandatory for many users, adding another layer of complexity.
- Aadhaar eKYC is required for registration, making it harder for some to access services.
Online bookings dominate the landscape—almost 98% of total requests are made digitally. This shift reflects changing consumer habits but also raises questions about accessibility for those less tech-savvy.
Sujata Sharma emphasized, “Citizens are advised to avoid panic purchase of petrol, diesel and LPG as the government is making all efforts to ensure availability.” Yet, uncertainty looms over whether further price hikes will occur on May 1.
In March alone, commercial cylinders saw significant price increases—first by ₹144 and then nearly ₹200 on April 1. The current lock-in period for booking LPG cylinders stands at 25 days, which could further complicate access for consumers.
The situation is fluid; while the government assures availability, many are left wondering how these changes will affect their daily lives and budgets.
