Amid LPG crisis, ‘LPG with Rapido’ notification sparks concerns

As Middle East tensions continue to escalate, LPG cylinder prices have surged and cities in Gujarat as well as other states are facing shortages. Amid the crisis, ride-hailing platform Rapido sparked criticism after sending a promotional notification that read, “LPG with Rapido – Lowest price guaranteed.”

People have found this message insensitive and made them furious, considering   the long queues of consumers for LPG cylinders in scorching heat while the supply crunch continues.

A shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has forced nearly 20% of hotels and restaurants in Mumbai to shut down, while Bengaluru and Chennai restaurants too have borne the brunt of the short supply. Industry associations have warned that up to 50% of eateries could close in the next two days if the situation does not improve.

The supply disruption has been linked to the ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Israel, Iran and the United States, which have begun affecting domestic fuel supply chains across India.

Restaurants are struggling to secure commercial LPG cylinders and are resorting to measures such as menu rationing, slower cooking schedules and even purchasing cylinders through unofficial channels to keep operations running.

The government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to ensure the uninterrupted supply of domestic cooking gas, directing refineries and petrochemical units to maximise LPG production. The Act has been invoked to divert key hydrocarbon streams into the LPG supply pool in an effort to stabilise availability.