As concerns grow over a possible shortage of commercial LPG cylinders amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, the Indian Oil Corporation has issued practical advice to help citizens conserve cooking gas. The guidance comes after the hospitality industry raised alarm in cities such as Mumbai and Pune, warning that restaurants could face shutdowns within days if gas supplies remain disrupted. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the corporation encouraged households to adopt fuel-efficient cooking methods. It suggested using pressure cookers more frequently, explaining that the appliance significantly reduces cooking time and thereby lowers LPG consumption, making everyday kitchen practices more energy-efficient.
The corporation also advised that cooking multiple food items together inside a pressure cooker can further improve fuel efficiency. By placing separators within the cooker, households can prepare rice, dal, and vegetables simultaneously, saving both time and gas. The company emphasised that such simple adjustments can make kitchens more efficient and help conserve LPG during periods of uncertainty. "LPG Conservation Tip: Let your pressure cooker do more. It reduces cooking time and helps save a significant amount of LPG. Remember: Pressure cooking saves fuel and time. Use separators in the pressure cooker to cook different items at the same time," IOC wrote on X.
Recent disturbances in international maritime trade routes have reportedly tightened the availability of commercial LPG stocks, creating concern among large hospitality businesses that rely heavily on the fuel for daily operations. In response to the situation, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation West Zone has instructed all catering license holders to immediately shift to alternative cooking arrangements wherever possible. These include electricity-based appliances such as microwaves and induction stoves. The directive applies particularly to static catering units operating across the railway network, including Food Plazas, Refreshment Rooms and Jan Ahaars, as part of emergency measures to ensure uninterrupted food services.
Meanwhile, the All India LPG Distributors Federation has dismissed fears of a widespread LPG shortage. Executive President PN Seth stated on Tuesday that supplies of both commercial and domestic cylinders remain stable and are continuing as normal across the country. While speaking to Asian News International, Seth said, "There is no shortage, and the supply of commercial and domestic cylinders is going as it used to before. The domestic sector is the top priority. We are meeting with distributors and all stakeholders." He emphasised that the domestic segment remains the highest priority for distribution authorities.