Analysis · Professional & Local Services

LPG price surge disrupts gig worker livelihoods in India

By Startup Enthusiast · 2 April 2026

What they do

Nia.one connects gig workers to employers while offering accommodation and meals

A 1 kg LPG refill that earlier cost ₹100 is now being sold at ₹400

Workers face migration back to villages as cylinder costs become unaffordable

West Asia tensions have strained global supply chains for energy products.
The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant portion of world seaborne oil trade.
India imports most of its LPG through this critical maritime chokepoint.
Diplomatic moves allowed Indian vessels safe passage but did not stabilize supply.
Registered government consumers are facing severe unavailability of cooking gas cylinders.
LPG refill prices have surged dramatically from ₹100 to ₹400 per kg.
Gig workers like Zomato delivery partners are leaving cities due to high costs.
Smaller restaurants are shutting down or limiting menus to cope with expenses.

Energy dependency makes India vulnerable to geopolitical conflicts in West Asia.
High fuel costs directly impact the disposable income of low-wage workers.
Union leaders have written to the petroleum minister seeking intervention.