There’s important news for millions of Indian households using Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). Starting May 1, the country’s three major oil marketing companies—Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum—will implement major changes to the cylinder booking and delivery process. The primary objective of these new rules is to prevent the black marketing and illegal commercial use of subsidised cylinders.
Extended Refill Booking Time
To curb black-market gas, the mandatory interval between two cylinder bookings has been increased. Customers in urban areas will now have to wait 25 days for a second booking, up from 21 days previously. In rural areas, this time limit has been increased to 45 days. The oil companies’ automated systems will not accept bookings before this stipulated period.
OTP-based delivery becomes mandatory.
Starting May 1, the ‘Delivery Authentication Code’ (DAC) will be mandatory. Customers will no longer be able to receive cylinders simply by showing their ‘Blue Book’ or receipt. An OTP will be sent to the customer’s registered mobile number at the time of booking. When the delivery person brings the cylinder to your home, they must provide this code. Only then will the transaction be considered complete. According to government data, this process has significantly reduced commercial abuse.
Price Changes and Supply Situation
Gas prices are also under pressure due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The price of a domestic 14.2 kg cylinder recently increased by ₹60. It is expected that prices may be revised again on May 1. To meet domestic demand, Indian oil companies are preparing to import additional oil from the US, with shipments expected to arrive in June-July.
Important Tips for Customers
Consumers should take these steps in view of the May 1 deadline:
- Ensure your correct mobile number is linked to your gas connection.
- Check your next booking date through the MyLPG portal.
- If e-KYC is pending, complete it immediately.
eKYC and Biometric Compulsory
The government has clarified that biometric authentication is mandatory for all beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY). Consumers who have not yet completed their Aadhaar-based e-KYC are advised to complete it immediately by visiting their gas agency to avoid service disruptions.
