Middle East Tensions: LPG shortage hits Sonbhadra as supply disruptions trigger panic

An LPG shortage in Uttar Pradesh’s Sonbhadra has triggered long queues and panic buying, as disrupted supplies linked to West Asia tensions hit households and businesses.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht
Updated : 19 March 2026, 3:26 PM IST
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Sonbhadra: A severe shortage of LPG cylinders has emerged in Sonbhadra district, leading to long queues, panic among consumers, and disruptions to daily life. The crisis is being linked to wider supply challenges amid ongoing tensions in West Asia.

Supply Crunch Across District

Gas supply in several parts of the district has been significantly affected, with many agencies reporting that stocks have been exhausted. Residents in areas such as Robertsganj, Obra, and Chopan have been lining up since early morning, often returning empty-handed due to lack of availability.

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Consumers report waiting for weeks, and in some cases months, to secure a domestic gas cylinder, highlighting the severity of the shortage.

Impact on Households and Businesses

The crisis has affected not only households but also commercial establishments. Hotels and restaurants are facing difficulties due to a shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, forcing many to scale down operations.

Local businesses say the lack of fuel is disrupting routine activities and affecting earnings, particularly for small establishments dependent on regular gas supply.

Allegations of Black Marketing

Amid the shortage, allegations of black marketing have surfaced. Consumers claim that some agencies are selling cylinders at prices higher than the prescribed rates.

There are also reports of several gas agencies remaining closed, with staff unavailable and contact numbers switched off, adding to public frustration.

Large Consumer Base Affected

The district has around 44 LPG agencies catering to nearly 3.65 lakh consumers. With supply chains disrupted, a large population is facing difficulties in accessing essential cooking fuel.

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Residents have urged authorities to restore supply at the earliest and take strict action against those involved in overpricing and hoarding.

Concerns Over Worsening Situation

Experts warn that if supply is not stabilised soon, the crisis could deepen further. With demand continuing to rise and supplies remaining uncertain, the situation in Sonbhadra highlights the broader impact of global disruptions on local essentials.

Location : 
  • Sonbhadra

Published : 
  • 19 March 2026, 3:26 PM IST

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