Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 25: The government on Wednesday reassured citizens that LPG, petrol, and diesel supplies remain stable, urging the public to avoid panic purchases amid recent rumours. Authorities confirmed that no shortages have been reported at LPG distributorships or petrol pumps, and domestic LPG cylinder deliveries continue as normal.
Partial commercial LPG supply has been restored at 20%, with an additional 10% allocation planned under PNG expansion reforms. All refineries are operating at high capacity, maintaining adequate crude and fuel stocks, while domestic LPG production has been increased to meet household demand, according to an official inter-ministerial briefing.
The Petroleum Ministry advised citizens to use digital platforms for LPG bookings and minimize visits to distributors. “Supply continues to be impacted by the prevailing geopolitical situation. Citizens are encouraged to use alternative fuels such as PNG and electric or induction cooktops and conserve energy in daily usage,” the ministry added.
While some areas experienced heavy crowds and unusual sales due to rumours, sufficient petrol and diesel stocks are available at all retail outlets. The government stressed that information should only be relied upon from official sources.
Enforcement drives are underway across States and UTs to prevent hoarding and black marketing of LPG. Over 2,700 raids have been conducted, resulting in the seizure of approximately 2,000 cylinders in states including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh. PSU oil marketing companies have carried out more than 1,700 surprise inspections, leading to over 650 FIRs and 155 arrests so far.
Priority allocations remain in place, with 100% supply of domestic PNG for cooking and CNG for vehicles, while industrial and commercial consumers receive around 80% of average consumption. City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies have been advised to prioritize commercial PNG connections for restaurants, hotels, and canteens, with incentives offered for both domestic and commercial connections by entities including IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas, and BPCL.
Additionally, 48,000 KL of kerosene has been allocated to all States and UTs above regular allocations, with authorities asked to designate district-level distribution points.