Black market sends prices through the roof

Bhopal: Black marketing in liquefied petroleum gas cylinders is disrupting daily life across Bhopal, pushing households, hotels, and restaurants into a deepening crisis.

The 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder, officially priced at Rs1800 is reportedly being sold illegally for Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000. Domestic 14.2-kg cylinders, which should cost Rs 918, are also being diverted and sold for as much as Rs 2,000.

The sharp rise in unofficial prices has placed a heavy burden on families and small businesses that depend on LPG. "I had to buy a cylinder overpriced as the agency was not ready to deliver. I had no other option left in such a situation," said a resident in Arera Colony area.