Consumer survey flags serious concerns over delayed LPG deliveries, dealer shortages and alleged black market sales in Bengaluru, with some households paying up to Rs 2,800 per cylinder
Bengaluru: Concerns are mounting in Bengaluru as residents report delays in the delivery of domestic LPG cylinders and alleged black market sales, raising questions about supply management and dealer practices in the city.
For nearly a week, several consumers have complained about delayed bookings, long waiting periods and additional charges while trying to obtain LPG cylinders meant for household use.
A recent survey conducted among 2,721 respondents in Bengaluru has revealed a worrying trend in the city’s LPG supply chain.
Survey Reveals Widespread Delivery Delays
According to the survey findings, around 39 percent of respondents said LPG dealers were unavailable or that their bookings were delayed, indicating a major disruption in regular supply.
Another 16 percent of participants reported waiting longer than usual for cylinder delivery, while nearly 10 percent said they had to repeatedly contact dealers to get updates about their bookings.
Only 23 percent of respondents stated that their booking and delivery process was smooth, suggesting that the majority of consumers are experiencing some level of inconvenience.
Allegations of Black Market Sales
The survey also highlighted allegations of black market sales of LPG cylinders in certain areas.
About 12 percent of respondents said they were forced to purchase cylinders by paying additional money, indicating possible illegal resale practices.
When asked about supply conditions from dealers, 37 percent of the 2,502 respondents said dealers had already informed them about a shortage, while 33 percent were warned that deliveries might be delayed due to limited stock availability.
These findings suggest that supply disruptions and informal resale networks may be affecting access to LPG cylinders in several localities.
Consumers Paying Extra for Cylinders
A significant number of consumers also claimed they had to pay extra money to secure cylinders.
Survey responses showed varying additional payments:
Around 3 percent paid an extra Rs 100 per cylinder
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Nearly 10 percent paid between Rs 100 and Rs 300
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About 14 percent reported paying Rs 300 to Rs 500 extra
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Another 16 percent said they paid more than Rs 500 per cylinder
Alarmingly, some respondents claimed that in certain areas of Bengaluru, cylinders were allegedly being sold in the black market for prices ranging between Rs 1,500 and Rs 2,800 per cylinder.
At the same time, nearly 20 percent of respondents said they were unsure whether black market sales were occurring in their neighborhoods, indicating a lack of clear information among consumers.
Nationwide Trend Reflected in Survey
In a separate nationwide survey covering over 57,000 households across 309 districts, 57 percent of respondents said they experienced delayed LPG delivery or suspected black market sales in the past week.
Among them, 36 percent reported that middlemen were demanding extra payments ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 500 per cylinder.
Authorities and oil marketing companies are yet to issue an official response to the survey findings.
