New Delhi, India — April 4, 2026
A worsening LPG supply crisis in the national capital has triggered an unexpected return of kerosene stoves, as thousands of households struggle to access cooking gas. The situation is particularly severe for migrant workers, many of whom are now leaving the city due to rising costs and basic survival challenges.
Kerosene Stoves Make a Comeback
With LPG cylinders becoming increasingly difficult to obtain, older alternatives like kerosene stoves—once nearly obsolete—are rapidly regaining demand across Delhi.
Wholesale markets such as Sadar Bazaar and Chandni Chowk are witnessing shortages of these stoves, which had largely disappeared due to the widespread adoption of LPG and induction cooking.
Traders say the sudden surge in demand has caught the supply chain off guard, leaving markets unable to meet consumer needs.
Prices Skyrocket Amid Short Supply
The spike in demand has led to a sharp increase in prices:
- Basic kerosene stoves: ₹400–₹600 ➝ ₹1,500–₹1,800
- Large kerosene/diesel furnaces: Up to ₹30,000
Despite rising prices, availability remains limited, adding to consumer distress.
Fuel Supply Gap Worsens Situation
Although the government has allowed the sale of kerosene under emergency measures, supply remains inconsistent in the market. This gap between policy and availability has intensified the crisis, especially for low-income households dependent on affordable cooking fuel.
New Generation Struggles With Old Technology
The sudden return of kerosene stoves has created practical challenges, particularly among younger users unfamiliar with their operation.
Domestic workers and homemakers across areas like Munirka and RK Puram report difficulty in both finding and using these traditional stoves, highlighting a generational gap in cooking methods.
Migrant Exodus Gains Momentum
The crisis has had a profound impact on migrant workers, many of whom are now unable to afford food due to rising costs and lack of cooking fuel.
As a result, a growing number of people are leaving Delhi and returning to their hometowns.
Crowds have surged at major transit points such as:
- Anand Vihar Bus Terminal
- Anand Vihar Railway Station
Passengers carrying bags and essentials were seen waiting for buses and trains, particularly for routes to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Many travelers reported that the inability to cook food due to LPG shortages, combined with high food prices and limited work opportunities, forced them to leave the city.
Ground Reality
The ongoing gas crisis has exposed vulnerabilities in urban supply chains and highlighted the dependence of millions on subsidized cooking fuel.
Unless supply stabilizes soon, experts warn the situation could worsen, affecting both livelihoods and urban workforce stability.
