The price of a 19-kg commercial cylinder has seen surge with increases ranging between Rs 195 and Rs 218 depending on the region. Simultaneously, the 5-kg mini cylinder (FTL) saw a price jump of Rs 51.
State-owned oil marketing companies announced a significant hike in the prices of commercial liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders on Wednesday, April 1, citing severe disruptions in global energy supply chains. While domestic households have been spared for now, the move is expected to increase operational costs for the hospitality and industrial sectors.
The price of a 19-kg commercial cylinder has seen surge with increases ranging between Rs 195 and Rs 218 depending on the region. Simultaneously, the 5-kg mini cylinder (FTL) saw a price jump of Rs 51.
The updated rates for a 19-kg commercial cylinder are as follows:
- Delhi: Rs 2,078.50 (Up by Rs 195.50)
- Mumbai: Rs 2,031 (Up by Rs 195.50)
- Kolkata: Rs 2,208 (Up by Rs 218)
- Chennai: Rs 2,246 (Up by Rs 203)
Global Conflict Drives Local Costs
Industry experts attribute this sharp revision to the escalating geopolitical conflict in West Asia. Since the onset of the crisis, international oil prices have surged by approximately 50%. A critical factor in this spike is the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime artery for global energy transit, which has effectively choked supply routes and forced state-owned firms to pass on the rising costs to commercial consumers.
Impact on Businesses vs. Households
The revision primarily targets the commercial sector, including hotels, restaurants, and small-scale industries. Business owners have expressed concerns that the rising cost of fuel, combined with general inflation, may eventually lead to higher prices for consumers at eateries and catering services.
In a move of significant relief for the general public, domestic cooking gas prices remain unchanged. The price for a 14.2-kg household cylinder stays at Rs 913 in Delhi, following its last adjustment of Rs 60 on March 7.
