New Delhi, 07 March (H.S.): Oil marketing companies have raised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices in response to military tensions in West Asia and disruptions to liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports via the Strait of Hormuz, with domestic cylinders increasing by ₹60 and commercial ones by ₹114.50 to ₹115 effective immediately.

In the national capital, the non-subsidized 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder now costs ₹913, up from ₹853—the second hike in 11 months following a ₹50 increase on April 8, 2025.

Prices vary by state due to local sales taxes or value-added tax (VAT): Mumbai at ₹912.50, Kolkata at ₹939, Chennai at ₹928.50, and Noida matching Delhi at ₹913.

The escalation stems from ongoing West Asia conflicts, including U.S.-Israel actions against Iran, driving up global energy costs and affecting LNG supplies through the Hormuz chokepoint, which handles 80-85% of India's LPG imports.

India lacks comparable strategic LPG reserves, heightening vulnerability, though officials assure sufficient stocks with no panic needed.

Commercial 19 kg cylinders, used by hotels and restaurants, saw a sharper rise to ₹1,883 in Delhi from ₹1,768.50, following a ₹28 adjustment on March 1; year-to-date increases total ₹302.50.

Comparable metro rates: Mumbai ₹1,835, Kolkata ₹1,990, Chennai ₹2,043.50.Relief persists for Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries, with over 100 million low-income households receiving ₹300 per cylinder subsidy on up to 12 refills annually.

Refills booked or delivered from March 7 onward reflect the new rates, determined by international benchmarks, exchange rates, and taxes.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar