Jamshedpur Hoteliers Concerned
Jamshedpur: A sudden surge in domestic LPG bookings triggered by global tensions has forced companies in Jharkhand to temporarily curb the supply of 19-kg commercial gas cylinders. The move has raised concerns among hotels and restaurants, especially in Jamshedpur, where the hospitality sector depends heavily on commercial LPG for daily operations.
Oil Companies in Jharkhand have temporarily restricted the supply of 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders after a sharp rise in domestic bookings put pressure on the distribution network. The decision has worried hotels and restaurants in Jamshedpur, which rely heavily on commercial LPG for cooking.
LPG dealers said authorities prioritised domestic cylinders after an unprecedented spike in demand for 14.2-kg household cylinders. Consumers reportedly began panic booking after tensions escalated in the Middle East, although officials insist that the country is not facing an LPG shortage.
Under normal circumstances, LPG agencies in Jharkhand receive around 350 to 400 domestic cylinder bookings per day. Over the past few days, however, agencies have recorded nearly 2,300 to 2,500 bookings daily, creating massive pressure on supply chains and delivery systems.
Sources within the distribution network said authorities verbally instructed dealers to ensure an uninterrupted supply for domestic consumers. Consequently, agencies have informally limited the dispatch of 19-kg commercial cylinders used by hotels, restaurants, and small businesses until the surge in demand stabilises.
Officials have exempted essential institutions such as hospitals, school and college messes, and other critical facilities from the restriction to prevent disruptions in essential services.
LPG distributors said the sudden surge has overwhelmed logistics networks. Many agencies lack the delivery vehicles and manpower needed to handle such a sixfold increase in daily demand.
Hotel owners in Jamshedpur have raised concerns about the impact on their operations. They warn that a prolonged restriction on commercial LPG supply could disrupt kitchen services and raise operational costs.
A hotel operator in the city said, “We understand the need to prioritise domestic consumers, but commercial establishments also depend entirely on LPG for cooking. If the restriction continues for long, it may affect our services and increase operational pressure.”
Industry representatives have urged authorities and oil companies to ensure adequate supply to the hospitality sector so that businesses do not suffer major disruptions.
Officials have assured stakeholders that the measure is temporary and aims only to stabilise domestic supply amid panic-driven demand. They expect commercial cylinder distribution to return to normal once booking levels stabilise.
For now, LPG agencies across Jharkhand are focusing on clearing the backlog of household deliveries while closely monitoring demand patterns.
