RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – A 3kg LPG shortage in Tulungagung has forced residents in Sumbergempol District to search across villages for subsidized cooking gas, as demand has sharply increased in recent weeks.

For about two weeks, stocks of the government-subsidized 3-kilogram LPG cylinders, widely known in Indonesia as melon gas, have quickly sold out at small retailers. Higher household and micro-business demand has exceeded available supply at the local level.

Dadang, an LPG retailer in Doroampel Village, said cylinders now disappear within hours of delivery.
“For the past two weeks, supply has been difficult. Previously, 60 cylinders could last three to four days. Now they sell out immediately because so many people are looking,” he said on Sunday (Feb. 23).

Meanwhile, another vendor, Maksum, said distributors had reduced delivery quotas. Previously, retailers could request flexible quantities, but now shipments range from only 10 to 15 cylinders.

Deliveries also arrive just twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays. As a result, many retailers cannot meet daily demand, especially from households and small food businesses.

Consequently, the shortage has begun to disrupt micro, small, and medium enterprises. Some small producers have temporarily halted operations because they cannot secure LPG supplies.

Despite the scarcity, retail prices remain relatively stable at around Rp18,000 to Rp20,000 per cylinder in several areas. However, residents fear opportunistic price hikes if shortages persist.

Alam, a local resident, warned that prolonged scarcity could hurt low-income households that rely heavily on subsidized LPG.
“We hope the government and Pertamina act quickly so supply returns to normal, especially before the holiday season. The issue seems related to uneven distribution,” he said.

However, the Tulungagung Industry and Trade Office said overall 3kg LPG distribution remains normal. Officials attribute the perceived shortage mainly to seasonal demand spikes rather than supply disruption.

Siti Mahmudah, head of trade at the agency, said consumption rose sharply due to several events. These include Megengan traditions before Ramadan, Lunar New Year celebrations, and the rapid emergence of seasonal iftar snack vendors.

“Demand has increased significantly. It comes not only from households but also from temporary traders and pre-dawn meal preparation,” she said.

According to the agency, LPG agents and depots continue deliveries three times per week in line with official quotas. The office has also intensified monitoring to prevent hoarding or misdirected distribution.

To anticipate Ramadan and Eid demand, the Tulungagung administration has formally requested an additional 3kg LPG quota from state energy firm Pertamina. Officials also urge residents to avoid panic buying and purchase only what they need.

With distribution continuing and quota expansion under review, authorities remain optimistic that 3kg LPG availability in Tulungagung will stabilize soon.