Kolkata: Amid supply disruptions of the 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinders, the 5-kg LPG cylinder has been cited by many offering a ray of hope. The most significant point about the 5 kg cylinder is that it does not require an individual to have KYC compliance to buy a 5 kg cylinder. These smart options are sold by oil marketing companies such as Indian Oil, HPCL and BPCL. While the product of Indian Oil is branded Chhotu, BPCL has Bharatgas Mini and HP has Appu. Traditionally, these have been particularly beneficial for students, migrant workers and individuals living in rented accommodation. One can get hold of these 5 kg LPG cylinders by presenting an ID card.
As the US-Iran war escalated in West Asia, the biggest pinch that was felt by the common man in the first few weeks was that related to LPG cylinder suppl disruption. As India imports more than 60% of its natural gas requirements from the region hit by the war, gas tankers could not move through the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the global maritime crude oil shipments pass.
Price of the 5-kg LPG cylinder
The oil marketing companies have raised the price of the 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders on April 1 by Rs 195.5 and above depending on the city. While the 14.2-kg domestic cylinder has been spared a raise, the price of the 5 kg LPG cylinders has been raised by Rs 51. As a result the price of this cylinder is now between Rs 650 and Rs 700 in various cities. In any case, it is more affordable than the regular domestic cylinders and can be a stop-gap solution in a troublesome situation.
Indane Chhotu
Indian Oil has braded its 5 kg cylinder as ‘Chhotu’. This is specifically designed to help individuals without a local address proof. One can have it with a valid identity card. These can be purchased from Indane distributors as well as petrol pumps and supermarkets. This cylinder is portable. It also carries a buyback option and the taker will pay a certain fixed amount.
Bharatgas Mini, HP Gas Appu
Both Mini from Bharatgas and Appu from HP Gas are targeted for travelers, students and migrant workers. One can purchase them without any address proof. Usually there are provisions for “Dial A Bharatgas Mini” facility by dialing the toll-free number 1800 22 4344 and get it delivered to your place for a small delivery fee.