Bihar is currently facing a severe shortage of LPG gas cylinders, causing widespread distress among consumers. In cities like Muzaffarpur, home delivery services have been suspended, and people are returning empty-handed from gas godowns. Following a recent price hike and supply disruptions linked to global tensions, the situation has become critical for local households and small businesses as of March 11, 2026.
ℹ: Bihar Govt New Parking Rules: No Fees for Passing Vehicles and Mandatory Rate Charts at All Sites।
New LPG Prices and Booking Rules in Bihar
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) has implemented strict changes to manage the current shortage. The mandatory gap between two domestic cylinder bookings has been extended to 25 days to prevent panic buying. Domestic cylinder prices in Muzaffarpur have reached approximately ₹1,011, while commercial cylinders are priced at ₹2,120. Reports also suggest that cylinders are being sold in the black market for up to ₹1,500 due to local scarcity.
| Category | Updated Rate / Rule |
|---|---|
| Domestic LPG (14.2 kg) | ₹1,010 – ₹1,011 |
| Commercial LPG (19 kg) | ₹2,120 |
| Booking Gap Interval | 25 Days (Previously 21) |
| Supply to Agencies | 75% of normal capacity |
Reason Behind Supply Shortage and Distribution Issues
Local gas agencies in Muzaffarpur claim they are receiving only 75% of their usual stock from bottling plants. This has forced them to stop home deliveries and prioritize direct refills at godowns. The crisis is linked to geopolitical conflicts in West Asia affecting the Strait of Hormuz, which is a vital route for India’s LPG imports. Although Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated that India has reserves for 30 to 40 days, local supply chains remain under heavy pressure.
Government Action and Public Impact
The government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act (ECA) to ensure that domestic households receive priority over industrial sectors. Natural gas supplies are also being rationed to maintain PNG and CNG services for transport. In Muzaffarpur, local distributors have requested consumers not to engage in panic booking, as bottling plants are working to shift production schedules to meet the demand. Small food businesses and households continue to face the brunt of rising costs and unpredictable availability.
