Bhubaneswar, March 13: Consumers are facing difficulties in obtaining LPG cylinders due to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, leading to delays in bookings and supply disruptions. After booking a cylinder, customers reportedly have to wait up to 25 days before making another booking. In several areas, gas distributor agencies have temporarily halted deliveries, while booking numbers are also showing as unavailable.
The situation has made it difficult for households to manage cooking needs when their gas cylinders run out unexpectedly. Families without additional backup cylinders are facing particular challenges. Meanwhile, reports of black-marketing have also increased in some places.
Amid the shortage, many residents are turning to induction stoves as an alternative cooking option. As a result, the demand for induction cooktops has surged in recent days, both in local electronics stores and on online platforms. Earlier, such appliances had relatively low demand in retail stores.
According to Samarendra Rout, BM of Sunflame–V-Guard Industries Ltd., demand for induction cooktops has increased sharply over the last three to four days. “Stocks are depleting quickly. Our focus now is on ensuring steady supply to customers,” he said.
A senior official from Raj Electronics in Bapuji Nagar said customers are increasingly viewing induction stoves as an alternative to LPG. “We are selling around 40 induction cooktops daily in our store. Various brands are available and customers are showing strong interest,” the official said.
Satya Ranjan Das, owner of Bharat Electronics and Home Appliances in Bapuji Nagar, also confirmed the rise in demand. He said the store offers induction stoves ranging from 1400 to 2000 watts, priced between ₹2,000 and ₹4,000. “Sales have increased compared to earlier. We currently have stock, and customers can buy them before supplies run out,” he said.
Local resident Savitri Nayak from Rasulgarh said she decided to purchase an induction stove due to difficulties in LPG booking and availability. “It will help us manage cooking during emergencies,” she said.
The trend is not limited to households, as several hotels and restaurants have also begun using induction stoves more widely to cope with the LPG shortage.
