Pune, 13 March 2026: The ongoing shortage of gas cylinders in Pune and nearby areas is now affecting the market for alternative cooking appliances.
Over the past two days, demand for induction stoves has surged sharply, with many retailers reportedly selling them at nearly double their usual prices. Despite paying higher prices, many customers are still unable to easily find the appliances due to limited supply.
The shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has created serious difficulties for hotel owners and food businesses, forcing them to look for alternative cooking options. As a result, induction stoves have become the most preferred choice among both households and commercial establishments.
Appliances that usually cost between ₹2,000 and ₹2,500 are currently being sold for as much as ₹5,000 to ₹6,000, according to buyers. In several shops, the available stock is reportedly getting sold out within hours.
Along with induction stoves, traditional coal-fired stoves are also witnessing a revival in demand. Shops selling these stoves in some parts of the city have seen an unusual rush of customers. Traders say that earlier such stoves were rarely inquired about, but demand has increased significantly due to the gas shortage.
Diesel-operated stoves are also being sought as an alternative, though they are not easily available in the market. With demand rising suddenly, supply has fallen short. Traders believe the situation may improve only after the gas cylinder supply becomes regular again.
Due to the rising demand for induction stoves, several sellers in the city have started accepting advance bookings. With limited stock available, some retailers are collecting full payment in advance and assuring customers that the appliances will be delivered once new stock arrives.
Meanwhile, some families have begun returning to traditional cooking methods. Coal stoves, once largely confined to rural areas, are now being considered by urban households as a temporary solution. As a result, demand for these stoves has increased rapidly, and in some places even they are becoming difficult to find.
“Demand for induction stoves has increased significantly, but supply is limited. Customers often have to leave without getting one. Both households and commercial users are buying them, and some sellers have started taking advance bookings. Hotel owners in particular are booking them in bulk to keep their businesses running,” said induction distributor Kalam Jain.
“Because commercial gas cylinders are not available, there is a huge rush to buy induction stoves. I urgently needed one for my hotel and had to pay ₹12,000 for an induction stove that normally costs around ₹7,000,” said hotel owner Ramesh Pawar.
