LPG crunch pushes small businesses to brink, traders urge administrative intervention
Ferozepur, April 3, 2026: The ripple effects of escalating Iran–US tensions are now being felt in local markets, as a severe shortage of commercial LPG cylinders in Ferozepur threatens the survival of small businesses. Food vendors, eateries, hotels, and confectioners are struggling to operate, with many fearing imminent job losses.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, HPCL-authorised distributor Nectar Gas Service has approached the Deputy Commissioner, Ferozepur, seeking immediate intervention. The distributor has requested permission to procure and supply 50 commercial (19 kg) LPG cylinders daily to ease the crisis.
Walia, operator of Nectar Gas Service, said that before the geopolitical tensions, the supply was adequate, with monthly availability of around 250 (19 kg), 30 (425 kg), and 40 (47 kg) cylinders. However, the current supply has sharply declined to just about 30 (19 kg) cylinders, while the supply of 47 kg cylinders has completely ceased, creating a significant demand-supply gap.
Walia emphasised that a daily availability of at least 150 cylinders could offer partial relief. He said that if the shortage persists, traders may resort to using domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes, potentially leading to regulatory violations and the black market. He added that in areas without piped natural gas (PNG), oil marketing companies can increase supply with the Deputy Commissioner’s approval.
The crisis is already hitting businesses hard. Harish Goyal, a sweet shop owner in the Cantonment area, revealed that his establishment, which previously used five commercial cylinders daily, is now forced to rely on diesel furnaces, consuming nearly 100 litres of diesel each day.
He noted that diesel is significantly more expensive than LPG, sharply increasing production costs. Additionally, the inability to use commercial LPG has deprived traders of the 18 per cent GST refund benefit, further straining their finances.
Traders across the city are now urging the administration to take swift action to restore supply and prevent further economic distress.