Kolkata auto LPG supply tightens, longer queues hit drivers and commuters

Summary

Auto-rickshaw drivers in Kolkata are facing longer wait times at LPG filling stations as tighter supplies and increased demand strain distribution, affecting daily operations and commuter services.

KOLKATA, March 23, 2026 — Supplies of auto liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Kolkata have come under pressure in recent days, leading to long queues at fuel stations and disruptions for auto-rickshaw services, according to drivers and industry participants.

Drivers in several parts of the city, as well as neighbouring Howrah, said they are spending hours waiting to refuel, reducing the number of trips they can complete each day and impacting earnings.

Fuel outlets operated by state-run companies including Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum have not announced any formal rationing. However, some dealers said supplies are being managed carefully to serve as many vehicles as possible.

Industry sources attribute the increased pressure to a rise in demand for authorised auto LPG, partly driven by stricter enforcement against the use of subsidised domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes.

“More vehicles are shifting to legal fuel channels, which is increasing demand at authorised stations,” a fuel dealer said, declining to be named.

Supply-side constraints have also contributed to the situation. Logistics and inventory pressures at eastern distribution hubs such as Haldia Port have slowed replenishment cycles, according to industry participants.

State authorities have not issued an official statement on the supply situation, and it remains unclear how long the tighter conditions will persist.

For commuters, the disruption is beginning to show in longer waiting times for shared auto services, though there has been no formal change in regulated fares.

Why this matters

• Urban mobility strain: Auto-rickshaws are a key part of last-mile connectivity in Kolkata, so fuel delays directly impact daily commuting.
• Shift to formal fuel use: Crackdowns on illegal LPG usage are pushing more drivers toward authorised supply chains, increasing demand pressure.
• Supply chain sensitivity: The situation highlights how regional fuel distribution can be affected by logistics and inventory bottlenecks.

FAQs

Q1. Is LPG being rationed in Kolkata?

There is no official announcement of rationing, but some fuel stations are informally managing supply due to high demand.

Q2. Why are queues increasing at LPG stations?

Higher demand from auto drivers and slower supply replenishment have led to longer waiting times.

Q3. Are auto fares increasing?

No official fare hike has been announced, though service delays may affect availability during peak hours.