Common residents in Delhi are facing a tough time as domestic LPG cylinders are being sold at highly inflated prices in the black market. Although the official price of a 14.2 kg cylinder remains ₹913 as of April 1, 2026, many people are being forced to pay between ₹3,400 and ₹4,500 in areas like Maujpur, Alipur, and Kek Chowk. The Delhi government has responded by ordering strict monitoring of all gas agencies and warehouses to stop this illegal trade and ensure supply reaches the rightful consumers.
Government Measures and New Distribution Rules
To curb the artificial shortage and hoarding of gas, the authorities have implemented new rules for booking and distribution. The minimum interval between booking two LPG refills has been extended from 21 days to 25 days. Additionally, a new policy for commercial LPG ensures that hotels, hospitals, and schools receive cylinders based on their average consumption over the past three months. Food Safety Officers are now conducting frequent surprise inspections at commercial establishments to check if domestic cylinders are being used illegally.
Arrests and Seizure of Illegal Gas Stock
The Delhi Police and the Food Supply Department have carried out multiple raids across the city to bust black marketing rackets. Recent enforcement actions have led to several arrests and significant recoveries of gas stock. The following table highlights the major actions taken by the police in different areas.
| Location | Action Taken | Items Seized |
|---|---|---|
| Ranhola | HP Balaji Gas Agency owner arrested | 459 LPG Cylinders |
| Sangam Vihar | Four delivery agents arrested | 183 LPG Cylinders |
| Jamia Nagar | Individual named Shahnawaz arrested | 62 LPG Cylinders |
| Chhawla | Individual named Ashok Kumar arrested | 65 LPG Cylinders |
Delhi’s Food and Supplies Minister, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, stated that the city’s LPG supply is stable and citizens should not pay attention to rumors of a shortage. He confirmed that officials are required to submit daily reports of their actions to the Fuel Branch to maintain transparency. Police units, including the Crime Branch and Anti Narcotics Task Force, remain deployed around gas agencies to prevent further illegal activities.
