By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 27: Even as the state government claims to have sufficient stock of domestic LPG cylinders, consumers across Meghalaya have begun feeling the severe pinch of the shortage, with the state clearly heading towards a full-blown LPG crisis in the coming days.
Residents in Shillong and parts of the state reported long queues at distributors and desperation, with many willing to pay as much as Rs 1,500–1,800 for a single LPG cylinder in the black market.
However, cylinders are hardly available even at inflated prices. Several stores selling small LPG cylinders have also run out of stock.
The crisis has hit the commercial sector particularly hard. Eateries, restaurants, dhabas, and hotels in Shillong, Tura, Jowai, and Sohra have started running out of commercial LPG cylinders. Many popular eating joints have been forced to either shut down operations partially, reduce their menus significantly, or switch to expensive and unsustainable alternatives such as induction cookers and firewood.
Meghalaya’s tourism industry, a key driver of the state’s economy, is also getting badly affected. Hotel and resort owners in major tourist hubs like Shillong and Sohra said they are compelled to curtail services and limit menu offerings. Available commercial LPG stocks are reportedly being prioritised for essential services such as hospitals and hostels, leaving the hospitality sector struggling.
Tourists visiting popular destinations have faced difficulties in finding proper meal facilities, leading to guest complaints and some cancellations during the ongoing travel season.
The state government admitted on Thursday that the “surplus” buffer for domestic LPG has evaporated. Food and Civil Supplies Minister Methodius Dkhar told reporters that while there is currently no outright shortage of domestic LPG, the cushion the state once enjoyed is gone. He added that domestic cylinders will now be distributed strictly as per routine to prevent panic and oversupply.
The situation is more critical for the commercial sector. Dkhar confirmed a 20% cap on supply imposed by the central ministry, meaning the state is receiving significantly fewer cylinders than required.
The state government has written to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to request an increase in the capping limit for the state.
Residents and business owners have appealed to the authorities to treat the LPG crisis as an emergency and ensure uninterrupted supply before it causes long-term damage to small eateries and the tourism-dependent economy.
Meanwhile, BJP leader A.L. Hek said the party is conducting a ground survey to assess the situation in Shillong. Admitting that the party has not yet taken up the matter with the state or central government, Hek assured that the BJP will definitely flag the issue at the appropriate level.
