Pune: PMC Temporarily Closes 20 Gas Crematorium Furnaces To Safeguard Household LPG Supply
Pune Civic Body Awaits ₹3,045 Crore From State, Activist Urges Swift Recovery
Pune, March 9, 2026: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has temporarily shut down 20 gas-powered crematorium furnaces across the city to conserve LPG for domestic use, following concerns over possible supply disruptions caused by escalating tensions in West Asia.
Civic officials said the move was taken after the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued instructions on March 5 directing authorities to prioritise propane and butane for household LPG consumption. The directive comes amid the ongoing conflict involving Israel, the United States and Iran, which has affected energy movement in the region.
The conflict has raised concerns about the safety of shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage that carries a significant portion of India’s oil and gas imports. Any disruption along this route can directly impact fuel availability in the country.
India relies heavily on imported LPG, with nearly 60–70 percent of its demand met through overseas supplies, most of which come from countries in West Asia. Due to the uncertainty in the region, authorities have begun taking precautionary steps to ensure domestic consumers do not face shortages.
In line with the central government’s directive, refineries have been asked to increase LPG production using available propane and butane. The available supply is being prioritised mainly for household use.
Following these instructions, PMC officials decided to suspend operations of 20 gas-operated crematorium furnaces across the city until further notice. The civic body said the measure is intended to prevent any disruption in LPG availability for households.
However, funeral services will continue without interruption. Electric crematorium furnaces and facilities equipped with air pollution control systems will remain operational to handle cremations.
At the Vaikunth Crematorium, three gas-based furnaces have been shut down, while five electric furnaces at the facility will continue to function.
Officials stated that the situation in West Asia is being closely monitored, and resource management measures have been implemented to ensure that domestic energy requirements are met as a priority.
