Centre Lifts All Restrictions on Commercial LPG Cylinder Supply After Middle East Ceasefire

The Central Government has lifted all restrictions on the supply of commercial LPG cylinders to restaurants, hotels, industries, and other commercial establishments following the restoration of natural gas imports after the easing of tensions in the Middle East.

The restrictions had been imposed after the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel disrupted the movement of gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz for nearly four months. The disruption affected the availability of imported gas in India, leading to supply limitations for commercial and industrial consumers.

With the recent peace agreement between Iran and the United States bringing an end to hostilities, gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have resumed, significantly improving supply conditions.

In a notification issued on Thursday, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas announced that all restrictions on the distribution of commercial LPG cylinders have been withdrawn. The ministry stated that imported gas shipments are expected to reach India shortly and domestic natural gas production has also improved considerably.

As a result, commercial LPG cylinders will now be supplied based on demand, restoring the normal distribution system for businesses across the country.

The government has also partially relaxed restrictions on the bulk supply of gas to commercial and industrial consumers. Establishments receiving bulk gas supplies will now receive up to 50% of their pre-restriction allocation, providing significant relief to industries affected by the earlier supply shortages.

The ministry reiterated that ensuring uninterrupted supply of domestic LPG cylinders for households will continue to remain the government's highest priority. Oil marketing companies have been instructed to maintain updated data on commercial and industrial consumers to improve planning and ensure efficient distribution of commercial LPG.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to expanding the City Gas Distribution (CGD) network across the country. Commercial and industrial establishments that have already switched to piped natural gas (PNG) have been encouraged to continue using the service. Household LPG consumers are also being advised to shift to piped gas wherever the facility is available.

To facilitate the implementation of the revised policy, the Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has written to the Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories, directing them to take the necessary steps to ensure smooth execution of the new commercial LPG supply guidelines.

The decision is expected to provide major relief to hotels, restaurants, manufacturing units, and other businesses that rely heavily on commercial LPG, while helping stabilize fuel availability and support economic activity across various sectors.