Karnataka LPG Crisis: Siddaramaiah Seeks Urgent Intervention From Hardeep Singh Puri
Severe LPG shortage in Karnataka disrupts businesses as demand far exceeds supply, prompting urgent appeal to Centre.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has raised concerns over an acute shortage of commercial LPG across the state, warning of visible shutdowns of businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector. In a letter dated March 18 to Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, the Chief Minister sought urgent intervention from the Centre to address the crisis.
Highlighting the severity of the situation, Siddaramaiah noted that while the demand for commercial LPG cylinders from hotels, restaurants, catering services, and paying guest accommodations stands at around 50,000 per day, the current supply has dropped to just 1,000 cylinders daily. He attributed the shortfall to the prioritisation of domestic LPG distribution, which has significantly curtailed availability for commercial use.
The Chief Minister warned that the shortage is already disrupting daily operations, with several establishments reportedly shutting down due to the lack of fuel. He added that the ripple effects are being felt beyond the hospitality industry, impacting students, IT professionals, farmers, dairy producers, and others who rely on services linked to commercial LPG usage.
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Siddaramaiah also pointed to systemic issues in LPG distribution, noting the absence of a robust digital monitoring mechanism for commercial supplies. Unlike domestic LPG, which is tracked through an integrated system, commercial and auto LPG distribution lack similar oversight, contributing to inefficiencies and supply gaps. The shortage has also affected autorickshaw operations, raising concerns about last-mile connectivity in urban areas.
Urging immediate corrective measures, the Chief Minister called on the central government to ensure adequate allocation of commercial LPG to Karnataka, particularly in Bengaluru where dependence on such supplies is high. He stressed the need to stabilise distribution channels to prevent further disruption to businesses and everyday life.
The letter also mentioned that two LPG tankers are expected to arrive shortly, which could provide temporary relief. However, Siddaramaiah emphasised that sustained intervention from the Centre would be essential to restore normalcy and meet the state’s ongoing demand.
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