By TC News Desk
Agartala, 9th October 2025 : As with previous years, the festive season in Tripura has once again been marred by a widespread shortage of cooking gas across the state. However, this year’s crisis has reached alarming levels, particularly affecting the districts of North Tripura, Unakoti, and Dhalai, where thousands of households were left without LPG cylinders despite timely bookings.
Reportedly, the shortage began in mid-September due to supply disruptions from the Agartala bottling plant. LPG distributors have confirmed that the plant failed to deliver adequate quantities of cylinders, triggering the shortfall.
Compounding the issue is the rampant misuse of domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes. Allegations have surfaced against unscrupulous consumers who repeatedly book domestic cylinders and resell them to hotels, restaurants, and other businesses. Under Indian law, 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinders are strictly meant for household use, while commercial establishments are required to use 19 kg cylinders.
Despite clear legal provisions, enforcement has been lax. The Food and Supplies Department had issued strict directives months ago to all sub-divisional administrations to crack down on illegal usage. However, implementation has been minimal, allowing commercial entities to openly use domestic cylinders and deepening the crisis for regular consumers.
As the festive demand peaks, the unchecked commercial exploitation of domestic LPG continues to strain supply, leaving ordinary families in distress.
