Refill limits trigger LPG crunch fears

The implementation of new emergency regulations restricting LPG cylinder refills–25 days for single-cylinder connections, 35 days for double-cylinder users, and 45 days for PMUY card holders– has triggered widespread panic among the public over an alleged shortage of LPG in Nagaland.
Students, daily wage earners, and people staying in rented accommodations and paying guest houses have been the worst affected, as many do not possess gas connection cards and are forced to depend on the black market. A college student living in a rented apartment said she has been without cooking gas for several days. After searching for nearly a week, she managed to buy a cylinder from the black market for Rs. 1,400 — well beyond her budget.
Another student revealed that his roommate recently purchased a cylinder for Rs. 1,500. They noted that black market rates, which normally range between Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 1,100, have shot up significantly. The official price of a domestic LPG cylinder (KV 19/3-26) currently stands at Rs. 1,030, up from Rs. 970 in February.
A couple residing in a rented house in Kohima also expressed difficulty in obtaining cylinders even through black market channels, saying availability itself has become a major issue.
A hotel owner admitted that while the situation is still manageable, the supply is insufficient to meet full operational requirements.
However, stakeholders and the Kohima district monitoring committee have maintained that there is no official shortage of LPG in the district. They have clarified that no cases of hoarding, black-marketing, or overpricing have been detected at authorised outlets and that supply remains normal and adequate.
The committee also conducted surprise inspections of LPG distribution agencies and outlets across Kohima on March 28, 2026. The inspection team comprised officials from the district administration, Kohima police, food & civil supplies (F&CS) department, Kohima Municipal Council, and legal metrology. They reported that all agencies were strictly following the new guidelines issued by the F&CS department.