LPG Booking Alert: New 21-Day Lock-in Period Imposed Amid Panic Buying in Kolkata

• Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) implemented a 21-day lock-in period for domestic LPG cylinder bookings, effective Friday.
• Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) imposed the restriction, preventing a second cylinder booking before 21 days.
• The decision was made to curb panic bookings and hoarding in Kolkata, fueled by concerns over the West Asia conflict.
• Kolkata, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas saw 1.5 lakh bookings on Friday, significantly higher than the usual 1 lakh, causing delivery disruptions.
• OMCs assure there is no LPG shortage and urge consumers not to panic; the new rule aims to stabilize demand and supply.