The recent shortage of LPG cylinders, reportedly linked to disruptions caused by the ongoing crisis in the Gulf region, has led to a sharp rise in the sale of electric cooking appliances across Chennai. With LPG supply becoming uncertain in some areas, many households are turning to electric alternatives to ensure their daily cooking is not affected.
Retailers in the city say the demand for induction cooktops has increased significantly over the past few days, with many customers purchasing them as a backup option during the LPG shortage.
“Over the last three to four days, we have seen a sudden increase in the sale of induction stoves,” said a home appliance store owner in T. Nagar. “Many customers say they are unable to get LPG cylinders immediately, so they are buying induction cooktops to manage their daily cooking.”
Apart from induction stoves, other appliances such as electric kettles, microwave ovens and electric rice cookers are also witnessing higher demand in several stores.
“Earlier, people mostly bought induction stoves for occasional use or hostel cooking. Now families are buying them as an emergency alternative,” said a retailer in Anna Nagar. “Even electric kettles and rice cookers are selling faster than usual.”
Consumers say the move is mainly to avoid disruptions to their routine. “We are not sure when the next LPG cylinder will arrive, so we decided to buy an induction stove as a backup,” said a resident of Velachery. “It is useful for basic cooking until the supply becomes normal.”
Shop owners say customers are increasingly interested in portable and energy-efficient appliances that can be used during supply shortages. If the LPG shortage continues, retailers expect demand for electric cooking appliances in Chennai to rise further in the coming weeks.