Israel-Iran War Impact: Gas Shortage Forces Closure Of Pune’s Gas Crematoriums

Due to a shortage of LPG caused by global supply disruptions, Pune Municipal Corporation has temporarily shut down gas-based crematoriums and shifted operations to electric facilities.

The ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States is now beginning to affect fuel supply chains globally, and its impact is being felt even in Pune. Due to the emerging shortage of LPG in the country, the government has prioritised domestic gas supply, leading to restrictions on commercial usage.

Against this backdrop, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has taken an important decision regarding funeral facilities in the city. Gas-based crematoriums used for last rites have been temporarily closed due to the shortage of LPG, officials said.

Gas Crematoriums Temporarily Closed

According to the decision taken by the civic administration, gas-powered crematoriums in Pune closed from March 5, 2026, until further orders. The move was taken after instructions from the central authorities to prioritise the use of propane and butane for domestic LPG supply across the country.

The impact is particularly visible at the Vaikunth crematorium in Sadashiv Peth, one of the city’s major cremation facilities. The crematorium has five gas-based burners, all of which have been shut for the past two days due to the disruption in gas supply.

Electric Crematoriums To Remain Operational

To ensure that citizens do not face major inconvenience during funeral arrangements, the municipal administration has kept electric crematoriums and APC (Air Pollution Control)-based cremation systems operational.

At Vaikunth crematorium, five electric burners are currently functioning and are being used for cremations in place of gas facilities. PMC’s electricity department has informed citizens about the temporary arrangement and appealed for cooperation.

Commercial LPG Supply Also Affected

The LPG shortage has also affected the supply of commercial gas cylinders used in hotels, restaurants and industries. Gas distribution plants in Shikrapur and Chakan in Pune district have reportedly been instructed to stop taking new orders for commercial cylinders.

Commercial cylinders are widely used in restaurants, hotels and industrial operations such as metal processing and coating work. The sudden disruption in supply has raised concerns among business owners, particularly in the hospitality sector.

Impact On Businesses And Daily Operations

Hotel owners have reported difficulties in continuing operations due to the lack of commercial LPG. With new cylinder orders temporarily halted, businesses are currently relying on existing stock.

Meanwhile, the civic administration has clarified that the priority at present is to ensure uninterrupted domestic LPG supply for households, as the global conflict has affected fuel supply routes.

Authorities have said there is no clear timeline yet for restoration of gas supply, and the situation will depend on global fuel availability in the coming days.