Bhubaneswar: LPG prices across Odisha have seen a significant increase effective March 7, 2026. The price of a 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder has risen by 60 rupees, bringing the cost in Bhubaneswar to 939 rupees. This marks the first major hike for domestic consumers in nearly a year. Commercial LPG cylinders have also become more expensive, with a 115 rupee increase taking the price of a 19 kg cylinder to approximately 1,990 rupees.
The price surge is largely attributed to escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia and the Middle East, which have impacted global energy markets. In response to the volatility, oil marketing companies have implemented a 21-day mandatory lock-in period between refill bookings to prevent hoarding and stabilize the supply chain.
While fuel prices for petrol and diesel have remained relatively stable across most of the state, reports of localized shortages have emerged. In the Malkangiri district, several petrol pumps have reportedly run dry, leading to long queues and panic buying. Residents in some areas have reported waiting several hours to refuel, with some stations imposing limits on the amount of fuel sold per vehicle.
Shri Sanjay Lath, General Secretary of the Utkal Petroleum Dealers Association, addressed the growing concerns regarding these shortages. He noted that while localized stock depletions are occurring, particularly in interior districts, there is no reason for widespread alarm. He clarified that recent delays are primarily due to logistical bottlenecks at major depots like Paradip and Balasore. He urged the public to avoid panic buying, which places unnecessary pressure on the distribution network, and assured consumers that tankers are being prioritized to reach affected stations as quickly as possible.
The Union Ministry for Petroleum and Natural Gas has also issued statements to calm public anxiety, asserting that India maintains sufficient fuel stocks and that there is no cause for alarm regarding national energy security. To bolster supplies, the government has invoked emergency powers directing oil refiners to increase domestic cooking gas production and has begun diversifying imports, including recent shipments arriving from the United States.
Authorities in Odisha have urged citizens not to believe rumors of a widespread fuel wipeout. Local officials in affected districts noted that maintenance at regular depots has required fuel to be transported from more distant locations, but the situation is being closely monitored to ensure normalcy returns shortly.