The government has significantly increased the availability of 5-kg LPG cylinders, which can now be purchased over the counter from authorized distributors using valid identity proof without address verification requirements. As reported by the CMO, this measure is designed to provide special assistance to migrant workers, with 11 dedicated help desks established at selected HPCL outlets to provide information about nearby LPG distributors. Unlike subsidized 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinders, 5-kg FTL cylinders are priced at market rates and can be purchased without address proof. Residents have been advised to avoid visiting gas agencies or storage points or gathering in crowds, as all booked cylinders are being delivered directly to homes within the stipulated time. The government has also established a dedicated control room with helpline numbers 011-23379836 and 8383824659 to restrict hoarding and black marketing.
The Delhi government has implemented a comprehensive ban on LPG cylinder sales from warehouses to enhance transparency and efficiency in the distribution system. According to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), all LPG distributors have been directed not to sell cylinders directly from warehouses, with strict action threatened against violations. The move is aimed at making the system more transparent and stopping illegal sales. Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have issued instructions to all distributors, stating that any such sale is illegal and will attract action, as reported by PTI. CM Rekha Gupta stated that supply is being closely monitored to ensure there are no disruptions. The Delhi Police has conducted raids at 17 locations while the Food and Supplies Department has inspected 76 gas agencies and storage facilities to curb illegal activities.
The Centre has ramped up supply of 5-kg free trade LPG (FTL) cylinders to meet rising demand, with 6.6 lakh such cylinders sold since March 23, including over 90,000 units sold on April 4 alone. According to the oil ministry, there were no reports of shortages at distributor points, with over 51 lakh domestic cylinders delivered in a day, and online bookings accounting for 95% of total demand. The government has also intensified action against hoarding and black marketing, seizing more than 50,000 cylinders since March. On Saturday, a total of 1,14,679 LPG bookings were registered, while 1,31,335 cylinders were delivered, as reported by PTI. Currently, the average delivery time for domestic LPG cylinders stands at 4.24 days, ensuring timely and reliable service for consumers.
Despite official assurances of adequate supply, investigations reveal a thriving black market where LPG cylinders are being sold at exorbitant rates, and often in plain sight. According to Mint reports, an LPG cylinder which was being sold at ₹1,100 before the conflict began, was being sold at ₹1,700 in the month of March, with sources indicating prices reaching ₹2,000 during transactions. The gap between official claims and ground reality is becoming increasingly evident in the capital, with delivery agents reportedly stating "This is the time to earn. If not now, then when." This black market activity occurs despite the government's efforts to maintain stable supply through enhanced distribution mechanisms and strict enforcement measures.
Authorities have taken strict enforcement measures against market violations, issuing over 1,400 show-cause notices to LPG distributors and suspending 36 dealerships so far. As reported by the ministry, over 1,400 show-cause notices have been issued to LPG distributors, and 36 dealerships have been suspended for various violations. The government has also prioritized supplies of domestic LPG and piped natural gas for households and essential services such as hospitals and educational institutions. CM Rekha Gupta assured residents that LPG supply in Delhi remains stable and under control, urging people to stay calm, avoid rumours, and depend on the official delivery system.
