Why does a 10 kg plastic LPG cylinder cost more than a 14.2 kg refill?

Kochi: Amid complaints that new domestic LPG connections are no longer being issued, oil marketing companies have introduced plastic LPG cylinders as an alternative. Consumers will now be able to purchase a 10 kg plastic cylinder, but at a significantly higher price.

Consumers opting for the new connection will have to pay Rs 3,300 upfront for the cylinder. Unlike the existing metal cylinder connections, this amount is non-refundable. At present, a domestic connection with a metal cylinder costs Rs 2,200, which is refundable if the consumer surrenders the connection.

The new 10 kg plastic cylinder is being marketed under the name 'Free Trade LPG'. Owing to its lighter weight, it is easier to handle and transport, while its modern design is expected to appeal to consumers.

However, the cost of refilling the new cylinder is considerably higher. A refill for the 10 kg plastic cylinder will cost around Rs 1,448, compared with Rs 949 for the existing 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder.

The introduction of the plastic cylinder comes at a time when new domestic LPG connections remain suspended following the cooking gas shortage triggered by the West Asian conflict. Distribution companies have not indicated when regular domestic connections will resume, and applications for a second domestic cylinder are also reportedly not being accepted.

Oil companies are believed to expect that consumers unable to obtain new domestic connections will opt for the unsubsidised plastic cylinders instead. Critics, however, allege that the move is an attempt by the Central government to gradually reduce its subsidy burden on domestic cooking gas.

(PTI)