NEW DELHI: India’s domestic cooking gas market is witnessing a steady return to normalcy, with daily LPG refill bookings dropping significantly after a temporary spike triggered by global geopolitical tensions. Government data indicates that demand patterns have now aligned closely with pre-crisis levels, easing pressure on supply chains and distribution networks.
At the height of uncertainty in mid-March, daily LPG bookings had surged dramatically to nearly 89 lakh, driven by public concern over potential shortages. However, as the situation stabilised, bookings declined sharply to around 43–44 lakh in April. Officials confirmed that since April 3, daily bookings have consistently remained below the 50 lakh mark, reflecting a clear cooling of demand.
A notable low was recorded on April 12, when bookings dipped further to nearly 35 lakh cylinders. Despite these fluctuations in demand, oil marketing companies maintained a robust supply mechanism. On most days, close to 50 lakh LPG cylinders were delivered across the country, ensuring that households did not face any disruption. The only exception was a Sunday, when deliveries stood at approximately 30.7 lakh.
Between April 1 and April 14, a total of 658 lakh LPG cylinders were booked, while 652 lakh were successfully delivered, demonstrating the efficiency of the distribution system. This near parity between bookings and deliveries highlights the government’s ability to manage logistics even during periods of heightened demand.
Before the crisis, the average daily demand for domestic LPG stood at around 55 lakh cylinders. The recent figures suggest that consumption is gradually returning to this baseline, signalling improved consumer confidence and reduced panic buying.
The surge in March was closely linked to developments in West Asia, particularly disruptions in energy supply routes following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The situation triggered widespread concern about fuel availability, prompting households to place refill orders earlier than usual. As a result, bookings jumped from an average of 57 lakh to nearly 88.8 lakh on March 13.
To manage the sudden spike and prevent hoarding, the government implemented temporary measures, including increasing the minimum gap between LPG refills. Initially extended from 15 days to 21 days, the interval was later raised to 25 days. These steps played a crucial role in moderating demand and ensuring equitable distribution among consumers.
According to Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Petroleum Ministry, the current booking trend reflects stability in the system. She noted that while daily figures may vary, the overall average remains within the 50–55 lakh range. Importantly, there have been no reports of supply shortages or “dry-outs,” indicating that households across the country continue to receive uninterrupted LPG access.
The government’s proactive response, combined with improved global conditions, has helped restore balance in the domestic LPG market. As panic-driven behaviour subsides, the focus now shifts to maintaining consistent supply levels and strengthening resilience against future disruptions.
The return to normal booking patterns not only reduces operational strain on oil marketing companies but also reassures consumers about the reliability of essential fuel supplies. With demand stabilising and supply chains functioning smoothly, India’s LPG ecosystem appears well-positioned to handle future uncertainties without significant disruption.