A political dispute has emerged over an alleged shortage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), after the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) claimed that several Atal Canteens in Delhi were forced to shut down, disrupting access to low-cost meals for economically weaker sections.
In a post on X, AAP said the LPG shortage had led to the closure of these canteens, which are designed to provide meals at a subsidised rate of ₹5. The party alleged that the situation reflects “serious gaps” in supply management by the BJP-led central government and argued that the impact is being felt most by vulnerable groups who depend on such welfare services for daily meals.
The claims followed a media report stating that at least four Atal Canteens in the national capital had ceased operations due to a lack of cooking gas. According to the report, facilities located in areas such as Pratap Camp, Kalkaji, Anna Nagar near ITO, and R K Puram were affected, leaving regular beneficiaries without access to affordable food.
The reported closures have raised concerns about the continuity of welfare initiatives, particularly for daily wage earners and low-income residents who rely on these canteens for basic nutrition. Any disruption in such services can have immediate consequences for those with limited financial resources.
Amid the concerns over a possible LPG shortage, the central government on Monday advised consumers to use the fuel carefully and avoid unnecessary consumption. Officials also indicated that expanding piped natural gas (PNG) infrastructure is being considered as a long-term solution to reduce reliance on LPG cylinders and ensure a more stable energy supply system.
