LPG Panic Grips Deepens: Dealers flag supply pressure, deny shortage but warn of chaos; Watch Video
Prabh Sidhu
Chandigarh, March 17, 2026: Amid a growing LPG crisis narrative across the country, the Federation of LPG Distributors Association on Tuesday addressed a press conference in Chandigarh, offering a mixed picture—denying any actual shortage of gas while admitting that panic-driven demand has severely strained the supply system.
Contradicting claims that everything is running smoothly, several dealers highlighted the difficult ground situation, pointing to long waiting queues, public anger, and disruptions in delivery.
At the same time, Punjab unit president Gurpal Singh Mann clarified that the issue is not of supply, but of panic buying triggered by global uncertainties, including tensions between Iran and United States.
“There is no shortage of LPG. The real problem is panic. People are booking cylinders in large numbers and even stockpiling them, which is putting unnecessary pressure on the supply chain,” Mann said.
He added that the surge in bookings has disrupted the normal delivery cycle, leading to delays and frustration among consumers.
“Delivery workers are facing misbehaviour from customers. In fact, some workers are now hesitant to continue in such a stressful environment. This has also led to a shortage of labour, further delaying deliveries,” he said.
Watch Video
Even as officials attempt to calm the situation, the crisis has taken a tragic turn. Reports from Punjab indicate that at least two people have died while waiting in long queues for LPG cylinders, underlining the seriousness of the situation.
Visuals from multiple regions show people standing in lines overnight, reflecting fear-driven demand rather than actual supply collapse.
Dealers Question Coordination, Warn of Escalation
Distributors also raised concerns over lack of coordination between the Centre and state governments, saying it has contributed to confusion on the ground.
“Better coordination between governments is the need of the hour. Mixed messaging is only adding to panic among people,” Mann noted.
He further pointed out that policy shifts promoting piped gas systems may also be indirectly impacting LPG distribution dynamics.
“The focus on pipeline gas expansion is affecting LPG logistics at some level. These transitions need to be managed carefully,” he said.
Call for Calm
Emphasising that the situation can stabilise with public cooperation, the association urged citizens not to panic.
“The biggest issue right now is not shortage, but fear. We appeal to people to stay calm, book cylinders only as per need, and cooperate with delivery staff,” Mann said.
Dealers warned that if panic buying continues unchecked, the situation could worsen despite adequate supply, potentially leading to further disruptions and hardship for consumers as well as small businesses dependent on LPG.