11% buy LPG off black market, 63% face disruptions in Bhopal: Survey

BHOPAL: The ripple effects of global geopolitical tensions and fears of disruption in energy supply chains appear to be reaching household kitchens in the city. A consumer survey conducted by citizen engagement platform LocalCircles has revealed that 11% of households in Bhopal admitted to buying domestic LPG cylinders in the black market in the past week, though the figure remains lower than the national trend of 14% reported in the same survey. The "Pulse of Household Consumers on LPG" survey conducted by LocalCircles among 3,602 households in Bhopal indicates that many residents faced difficulty booking or receiving domestic LPG cylinders in the last seven days. While 37% of respondents said booking and delivery were normal, the rest reported varying levels of disruption. According to the survey findings, 13% said they had to wait longer than usual for delivery, 24% said dealers informed them that cylinders were unavailable or bookings were delayed, and 15% said they had to repeatedly follow up with distributors to get delivery. Another 11% admitted they had to buy a cylinder in the black market at a higher price.The Bhopal survey also indicates the emergence of illegal premiums being charged for LPG cylinders. While 65% of respondents said there was no black market purchase in their household or neighbourhood, others reported paying extra to secure a cylinder. Among them, 9% said they paid more than Rs 500 above the official price. Another 12% said they could not specify the amount but confirmed that cylinders were being sold outside the official distribution system.The survey also suggests that concerns about supply disruptions are being reinforced by LPG distributors themselves. In Bhopal, 39% of respondents said dealers told them there is currently a shortage of cylinders, while 29% said dealers warned that supply may be delayed. For Bhopal residents, the survey indicates that while the situation is not yet as severe as in some other parts of India, early signs of supply stress and rising premiums are beginning to surface.