Patna: As the election season heats up in Bihar, there is a small but welcome relief for consumers and traders. Oil companies have announced a reduction in the price of commercial LPG cylinders from November 1. The price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder has been cut by Rs 5 to Rs 6.50 in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Patna. However, the prices of domestic LPG cylinders used for cooking at home remain unchanged.
The new rates mean that a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder now costs Rs 1,590.50 in Delhi, compared to Rs 1,595.50 earlier. In Mumbai, the price has been reduced to Rs 1,542, in Chennai to Rs 1,750, and in Kolkata to Rs 1,694. For small business owners, especially those running hotels and restaurants, this reduction brings a little financial relief. It is the third consecutive month that the price of commercial LPG cylinders has come down. Oil companies say this is mainly due to a fall in international LPG prices.
Over the past year, the prices of commercial LPG cylinders have dropped by around Rs 200. On November 1, 2024, a 19 kg cylinder in Delhi was priced at Rs 1,802, and now it has fallen to Rs 1,590.50. Experts say the steady prices of LPG in the global market and a stable dollar rate have helped lower the prices. However, since the international market remains unstable, there could be changes again in the coming months depending on global trends.
The prices of domestic LPG cylinders have remained the same for now. A 14.2 kg cylinder costs Rs 853 in Delhi, Rs 852.50 in Mumbai, Rs 890.50 in Lucknow, Rs 951 in Patna, Rs 985.50 in Kargil, and Rs 969 in Pulwama. Price differences across cities exist because of varying state taxes, transportation charges, and dealer margins. States that are far from refineries or gas depots usually have higher rates because of extra transport costs.
For common people in Bihar, who are already struggling with rising prices, this small drop in LPG cylinder rates brings some comfort. According to the Petroleum Ministry, Bihar has about 13.5 million LPG consumers, out of which 11.2 million are beneficiaries of the Ujjwala Yojana. Even a small change in prices can make a big difference in their monthly budget. While inflation continues to be a major issue during the election period, the recent LPG price cut has offered a small but positive sign for both urban and rural consumers.
