Lower-Priced Cooking Gas for Some Consumers but Persisting High LPG Bills for Many
The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has announced a reduction in the cost of commercial LPG cylinders, providing financial relief for thousands of businesses operating in cities. This decision, passed by the Cabinet on August 8, is part of a larger financial aid package worth Rs 30,000 crore approved by the government to support oil marketing firms.
The revision in commercial LPG prices, announced by the Indian Oil Corporation on September 1, has been welcomed by smaller businesses that rely heavily on commercial LPG cylinders for their operations. Roadside eateries, small restaurants, local food stalls, and various service vendors are among the businesses that will benefit from this price drop.
In Mumbai, the price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder has been reduced to Rs 1,531.50, a decrease of Rs 51.50 from its previous price. Similarly, in Delhi, the price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder has been reduced to Rs 1,580, marking a decrease of Rs 51.50 from its previous price, effective from September 1. However, no changes have been made to the prices of 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinders in these cities. Mumbai maintains a price of Rs 852.50 for a 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder, while in Delhi, the price remains at Rs 853.
In Chennai, the price of a 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder is fixed at Rs 1,738, while the price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder has been reduced to Rs 1,531.50. In Kolkata, the price of a 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder is Rs 879, and the price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder is now Rs 1,684.
Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has highlighted the Centre's efforts to support stable LPG rates, stating that this intervention has helped avoid steep hikes for consumers in the global energy markets. The goal of this financial aid is to help oil companies manage global cost pressures while keeping retail LPG prices under control.
However, it is important to note that this price drop in commercial LPG may not immediately translate into a downward revision in household LPG prices. The commercial LPG price drop is a reflection of the support provided to oil companies, but the prices for household users may remain unchanged for the time being.
This financial aid will be distributed in 12 parts, with the Indian Oil Corporation working towards ensuring a steady supply of LPG cylinders at affordable prices for businesses and households alike. The government's continued efforts to support the LPG sector are expected to provide further relief to consumers and businesses in the coming months.
