LPG shortage hits parts of Bihar, Deputy CM warns of action against black marketing, hoarding

Amid reports of a shortage of LPG cylinders in several parts of Bihar, Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Samrat Choudhary on Wednesday (March 11, 2026) warned of “stern and quick action” against those found indulging in black marketing or hoarding.

He said the government was making continuous efforts to ensure that common people do not face difficulties in getting domestic LPG cylinders. However, consumers in several districts, including Patna, Kaimur, Darbhanga, Motihari and Gaya, said they have been facing delays of up to five days in getting cylinders.

LPG crisis updates on March 11, 2026

In Patna, residents of localities such as Rajendra Nagar, Boring Road and Kankerbagh complained that they were unable to book cylinders either over the phone or by visiting agency offices. Several consumers were seen approaching trucks carrying LPG cylinders and requesting vendors for supply.

In Mohania of Kaimur district, residents of the Dadwa locality said a truck laden with LPG cylinders arrived after five days, and the distribution had to be carried out in the presence of the police.

“Yes, we are facing a severe shortage of gas cylinders to cook food at home. Vendors and gas agency owners seem to be working together to create a crisis for profit. We have no option but to buy cylinders at higher prices,” Ajit Kumar, a local businessman, told The Hindu.

In Gaya, domestic consumers gathered in large numbers outside gas agency godowns in the town area.

“The agency phone numbers are switched off. For the past four to five days, men and women have been coming here hoping to get a cylinder,” said Alok Kumar, who said he had been cycling to the agency every day for the past five days.

Responding to the complaints, Mr. Choudhary said the government would act firmly against any irregularities. “The government will take quick and stern action against those found involved in black marketing of LPG cylinders, Efforts are being made to ensure consumers do not face any problems,” he said. The Centre has issued clear guidelines regarding LPG supply, and steps have been taken to increase domestic production. he added.

State BJP president Sanjay Saraogi described the current supply constraint as a “special situation” and linked it to the ongoing crisis in West Asia. “This situation has continued for about two weeks. The Bihar government has asked district officials to ensure there is no shortage and that hoarding or black marketing is strictly checked,” he said, adding the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) has been invoked. 

However, some distributors denied any disruption in supply.

Abhijit Kashyap, a gas agency owner in Patna’s Rajendra Nagar locality, said there was no need for panic among domestic consumers. “There is no distress in domestic supply,” he said, though he added that commercial supply to hotels and restaurants has been rationed.