Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) say the immediate impact is already visible on urban distribution networks. “We are witnessing a growing mismatch between demand and available supply,” said an OMC spokesperson. In Kolkata, where dependence on LPG remains extremely high due to limited piped natural gas (PNG) infrastructure, the effects are expected to be more severe. The state currently has only around 450 active PNG connections, a negligible figure compared to metros like Delhi and Mumbai, where connections run into several lakhs. Though Bengal Gas has indicated that connections could scale up to 3,500 fast, infrastructure constraints remain a key hurdle.Dealers across the city reported growing anxiety among consumers and businesses alike. “Bookings are piling up, and we are unable to commit delivery dates,” said a local LPG distributor in south Kolkata. “Commercial cylinders are especially hit. Restaurants and small businesses are already feeling the pinch.”Pradeep Rozario, owner of KK’s Fusion, was worried. “We have introduced induction but all cooks are not very comfortable with such instruments,” he added. Restaurant owners say the delay in resuming steady commercial LPG supply could be “inordinate” if the crisis persists. Consumers, too, are beginning to feel the strain. “Earlier, we would get a cylinder within two to three days of booking. Now we are being told it may take a fortnight or more,” said Anup Sandhukhan, resident of Salt Lake. “It’s worrying because there’s no alternative.”West Bengal’s heavy reliance on LPG underscores the scale of the challenge. Kolkata alone has around 15.5 lakh LPG consumers, while the number exceeds 2 crore across the state. In contrast, the absence of a robust gas pipeline network means both compressed natural gas (CNG) and PNG are transported via cascade systems, limiting scalability. Energy experts warn that unless the geopolitical situation stabilises soon, supply disruptions could intensify.
