Significant Hike in LPG Prices Amid Middle East Tensions
Rising LPG Prices Impact Households
Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and a global energy crisis, consumers are facing a substantial increase in prices. The Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has raised the cost of domestic LPG cylinders by ₹60, while commercial cylinder prices have surged by approximately ₹115. These new rates took effect on March 7, 2026.
New Prices for Domestic LPG Cylinders (14.2 kg):
- Delhi: Increased from ₹853 to ₹913.
- Mumbai: Increased from ₹852.50 to ₹912.50.
- Kolkata: Increased from ₹879 to ₹939 (some sources report ₹930).
- Chennai: Increased from ₹868.50 to ₹928.50.
This price hike marks the second increase in the past 11 months, directly affecting household cooking expenses. It's important to note that beneficiaries of the Ujjwala scheme may experience a different impact on subsidized cylinders, while the full increase applies to non-subsidized ones.
New Prices for Commercial LPG Cylinders (19 kg):
- Delhi: Now ₹1883.
- Mumbai: ₹1835.
- Kolkata: Increased from ₹1875.50 to ₹1990.
- Chennai: Increased from ₹1929 to ₹2043.50.
This increase will heavily impact hotels, restaurants, dhabas, and small commercial enterprises that rely on commercial cylinders. Consequently, dining out and service costs may rise.
What’s Behind the Increase? Oil companies attribute this price hike to ongoing tensions and conflict in the Middle East, particularly related to Iran, which has led to a sharp rise in global energy prices. This region is a crucial hub for oil and gas supply, and instability has driven up crude oil and LPG prices in the international market.
This decision brings challenging times for the average consumer, who is already grappling with inflationary pressures. It remains to be seen whether petrol and diesel prices will also be affected in the coming days. For now, an increase in gas expenses is certain for household budgets.