No more 14 kg, only 10 kg; Oil companies plan to reduce weight of domestic cylinders

NEW DELHI: In the wake of the escalating tensions in the Middle East, a move has been made to reduce the quantity of LPG in domestic cylinders to prevent shortage of cooking gas. Normally, 14.2 kg of LPG is filled in a domestic cylinder. The companies are considering to reduce this to 10 kg. It will come into effect only if the central government approves the proposals in this regard.

With Indian tankers stuck in the Strait of Hormuz, there is a possibility of an acute LPG shortage in the country. Although talks are underway with the Iranian government to allow the tankers to pass, the LPG shortage is likely to continue as the course of the war cannot be determined. It is expected that the price will also decrease as the amount of LPG in the cylinder decreases.

A cylinder can be used for 35 to 40 days for domestic purposes on an average. Under the present regulations, a new cylinder can be booked only after 25 days in urban areas. In rural areas, it is 45 days. In this situation, it is reported that the change is being considered as part of a move to provide LPG to more people.

Due to the unavailability of commercial cylinders, restaurants are being closed. Some are trying to cope with the crisis by cooking on firewood and changing their menus. The LPG shortage has also started affecting the operations of hostels in addition to hotels.