LPG Gas: Samosa costlier by Rs 5, Chole-Bhature by Rs 10; Iran war affects Indian plates as food prices increase

New Delhi: The Iran-Israel conflict has not yet subsided. Consequently, the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. As a result, most countries across the globe—including India—are facing shortages of crude oil and natural gas. In India, the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders rose right at the beginning of this month.

The impact of this price hike has now become widely apparent, stretching from North to South India. Initially, owners of restaurants and 'dhabas'kept their establishments closed for a few days. While they have since resumed operations, the food items sold there have become more expensive.

Did LPG Cylinder Cost Cause Price Hike?

As soon as April began, state-run oil companies (Oil PSUs) hiked the prices of commercial gas cylinders by approximately ₹196. The prices of domestic LPG cylinders also increased. While the impact on household budgets was relatively minimal, it had a direct and significant effect on roadside stalls, *dhabas*, and restaurants—establishments that rely heavily on gas cylinders for their cooking operations. Now, the repercussions of this price hike are being felt across restaurants, 'dhabas', breakfast stalls, and even local tea shops.

Has Price Increased Across the Board?

We are specifically referring to the Delhi-NCR region in North India. At roadside stalls there, a cup of tea that previously cost ₹10 is now priced at ₹15. Tea that used to sell for ₹15 per cup now costs ₹20. A 'samos' that was available for ₹10 is now being sold for ₹15. Similarly, a *bread pakora* that previously cost ₹15 is now priced at ₹20. A plate of Chole-Bhature —typically sold at roadside carts for ₹30—is now selling for ₹40. Furthermore, a plate of roti and rice—which used to cost ₹30 at these same carts—is now being sold for ₹40.

According to reports, the prices of dosa and idli have risen across the region, stretching from Chennai to Bengaluru. The price of a dosa has increased by anywhere between ₹3 and ₹15. Similarly, the price of an idli has gone up by ₹3 to ₹10, a vada by ₹4 to ₹10, and various rice dishes by ₹5 to ₹15.

What is the Current Price of an LPG Cylinder?

State-owned oil companies—namely Indian Oil (IOCL), Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL), and Bharat Petroleum (BPCL)—collectively hiked the prices of commercial LPG cylinders effective from the first day of this month. Since that day, a refill for this type of cylinder in Delhi has been costing ₹2,078.50. This marks the fourth consecutive month that the price of this cylinder has increased. In just four months, it has become ₹498 more expensive. In Delhi, the price of a 19-kg commercial gas cylinder (typically used by eateries/confectioners) now stands at ₹2,078.50. The price is ₹2,208.00 in Kolkata, ₹2,031.00 in Mumbai, and has been raised to ₹2,246.50 in Chennai.

Why Were Prices Increased?

Santosh, a samosa vendor in Sector 16, Noida, explained that while the rising cost of LPG cylinders is certainly a factor behind the price hike, the real challenge lies in simply procuring a gas cylinder. To begin with, cylinders are currently unavailable. Even if one manages to find a source, obtaining a cylinder is extremely difficult and comes at an exorbitant price. He noted that his shop requires a continuous supply of gas throughout the day; consequently, he was compelled—albeit reluctantly—to implement slight price increases across his various food items.