Tamil Nadu Reels Under LPG Shortage, Commercial And Transport Sectors Hit Hard

Tamil Nadu is grappling with a commercial LPG shortage that has forced restaurants to cut menus and left auto-rickshaws off the roads, as panic buying swept through major cities including Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai on Thursday. Long queues formed at petrol stations, even though state officials and oil marketing companies repeatedly assured the public that petrol and diesel supplies remain adequate.

Residents reported waiting over 45 minutes at fuel stations, with some carrying extra containers despite regulations against hoarding. In suburban Tambaram, a senior citizen said he returned without refueling his two-wheeler after seeing long queues at the only two operational pumps in his area, estimating a wait of at least half an hour.

The hospitality sector has been particularly hard hit. The Tamil Nadu Hotels Association reported that thousands of small and medium-sized eateries are struggling, with many reducing their menus or temporarily shutting down due to limited gas availability. Popular establishments in Chennai have cut fuel-intensive dishes such as dosa and fried rice, offering simpler steamed items instead, while some restaurants have placed notices announcing temporary closures.

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The transport sector is also affected, especially gas-run auto-rickshaws. Nearly a quarter of Chennai’s fleet remained off the roads as drivers waited for hours at the few operational LPG dispensing stations. Those still operating reportedly raised fares to offset delays.

Political leaders have criticised the Central Government for allegedly creating an artificial shortage. M. Appavu accused New Delhi of issuing contradictory statements about fuel availability, noting that the Union government had recently claimed that gas, petrol, and diesel stocks were sufficient for 30 days.

Chief Minister M. K. Stalin contacted the Centre on March 11 seeking urgent intervention to stabilise the supply chain, which has been disrupted by geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Government sources said domestic cooking gas for households is being prioritised, while commercial supply continues to face severe pressure. Authorities have been instructed to monitor fuel outlets to prevent hoarding and quell rumours of a petrol price hike.

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