Many states are facing a severe shortage of commercial LPG due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East affecting imports. Restaurants, shacks and catering services have been badly hit, forcing some to limit menus or shut temporarily. The rule requiring city consumers to wait 25 days before booking another cylinder has added to concerns. Although there is a global shortage, the government continues to claim that adequate stocks of LPG, petrol and diesel are available. Nearly 80% of India’s crude oil imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which remains closed. The shortage could push inflation higher and worsen the economy, while uncertainty over the conflict continues to affect global markets.
