Gas Cylinder Booking Rule Changed After Price Hike: LPG Refill Gap Increased to 25 Days Amid Supply Concerns

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has increased the minimum waiting period for booking a refill of domestic LPG cylinders from 21 days to 25 days. The ministry introduced the step to prevent hoarding and ensure a more equitable distribution of cooking gas. Officials said the measure comes amid geopolitical disruptions affecting fuel supplies and rising concerns over fair access to LPG cylinders.

Government Extends Gas Cylinder Refill Gap to 25 Days

Under the revised rule, consumers must now wait at least 25 days between two domestic LPG refill bookings. Previously, customers could book a refill after 21 days.

Government sources explained that the decision is intended to curb stockpiling and black marketing of LPG cylinders while ensuring that available supplies are distributed more evenly among households and regions.

In response to current geopolitical disruptions affecting fuel supplies, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has also directed oil refineries to increase LPG production. The additional output will be channelled primarily toward domestic LPG consumption to ensure that household cooking gas requirements are met.

At the same time, imported LPG supplies are being prioritised for essential non-domestic sectors, including hospitals and educational institutions, to maintain uninterrupted services in critical areas.

For other commercial users such as restaurants, hotels and industrial establishments, the government has set up a committee consisting of three Executive Directors from oil marketing companies (OMCs). This panel will review requests and decide on LPG allocations for these sectors.

Domestic & Commercial LPG Prices Rise

The policy change comes shortly after a fresh increase in domestic LPG cylinder prices. Just two days earlier, the price of a domestic cylinder was raised by Rs 60. Commercial LPG cylinders also saw a significant hike, with prices increasing by Rs 114.5, adding further pressure on businesses that rely heavily on cooking gas.

The latest developments have once again brought fuel prices and inflation into focus, with opposition parties criticising the Government of India over rising household costs.

Petrol and Diesel Prices May Remain Stable

Despite the changes in LPG policy, government officials indicated that petrol and diesel prices are likely to remain stable for now. According to current projections, international crude oil prices are expected to hover around USD 100 per barrel.

Officials said that retail fuel prices at the pump may not see immediate changes unless global crude oil prices surge significantly, potentially exceeding USD 130 per barrel.

How to Book a Domestic LPG Cylinder

Consumers can book a domestic LPG refill through multiple methods depending on their service provider:

Mobile App Booking: Customers can use the official apps of LPG distributors to place refill orders quickly.

Online Booking: Visit the website of the respective LPG provider and book a cylinder using the registered account.

SMS or Call Booking: Users can book a refill by sending an SMS or calling the designated customer service number linked to their registered mobile number.

Distributor Booking: Customers can also contact their local LPG distributor directly to place a booking.

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