Published Mar 23, 2026 | 3:42 PM ⚊ Updated Mar 23, 2026 | 3:42 PM
Commercial LPG cylinders. (iStock)
Synopsis: The SOS system has been initiated following the shortage in commercial cooking gas that has impacted several restaurants and hotels.
An SOS system has been launched to supply cooking gas cylinders for urgent needs such as weddings, housewarmings, funerals and religious events.
Applicants must submit requests through a dedicated portal, after which a committee led by the District Collector will assess the urgency.
If approved, the District Supply Officer will recommend supply and oil companies will deliver cylinders through local agencies.
The shortage of commercial LPG has forced several hotels and restaurants to shut, prompting voluntary groups to start cloud kitchens and community eateries.
These initiatives, supported by political parties and local organisations, also aim to deliver food to hospitals and hostels.
The shortage has been caused by the ongoing West Asia conflict as 60% of India’s cooking gas needs are dependant on imports.
Earlier, Kerala set up a war room at the Civil Supplies Commissionerate in Thiruvananthapuram to manage the cooking gas shortage.
Oil companies have informed the government that commercial LPG distribution may be allowed by prioritising essential institutions such as old-age homes, hospitals, orphanages, schools, public and charitable hotels, hostels, guest houses and government canteens.
The Department of Public Distribution will prepare and submit a verified list of such institutions to the oil companies.
To streamline monitoring, oil companies have been directed to provide daily data on LPG stock, arrivals, distribution and balance at public sector gas agencies before 11 am to district administrations and the Public Distribution Department.
