Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Prices of 19 kg commercial LPG cylinders have been hiked from Tuesday, reported news agency ANI, citing sources, amid the ongoing West Asia conflict and volatility in global energy markets. In Delhi, the price has increased by Rs 195.50, while in Kolkata, the hike stands at Rs 218. The revised rates come into effect immediately.The increase in price comes despite the Delhi government increasing the allocation of commercial LPG cylinders to 50% of the average daily consumption, raising supplies from 1,800 to 4,500 cylinders (19 kg equivalent) per day in line with directives from the Centre.A few days ago, food and supplies minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the enhanced quota would ensure uninterrupted supply for essential services, hotels, industries and migrant labourers, and urged residents not to believe rumours of shortages. “The situation is fully under control,” he said, thanking the Centre for the “timely increase”.The revised policy divides allocation into seven priority categories. Hotels, restaurants, dhabas, food processing units and dairies will receive the largest share—3,375 cylinders per day, or 75% of the total. Essential services such as educational and health institutions, bus stands, railways and airports have been allotted 225 cylinders (5%), while govt institutions, PSUs, industrial canteens and community kitchens will receive an equal share.Caterers and banquet services have also been allocated 225 cylinders (5%), and sports facilities another 225. Industrial units, including dry‑cleaning units, packing facilities and pharmaceutical establishments, have been allotted 45 cylinders (1%). In addition, migrant labourers have been provided a protected social allocation of 684 cylinders equivalent per day in the 5‑kg category.
