Govt assures adequate LPG supply, says energy situation stable despite global disruptions
PTC Web Desk: The Government of India on Tuesday reassured citizens that the country has sufficient supplies of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG), dismissing concerns about a possible fuel shortage amid ongoing global geopolitical tensions.
Officials said energy supplies have stabilised and that India has diversified its crude oil import routes following disruptions linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
According to government sources, around 10 days ago, when the West Asia conflict intensified, India was importing nearly 55 per cent of its crude oil through the Hormuz route. Since then, the country has significantly diversified its sourcing strategy, and about 70 per cent of crude oil imports are now arriving through alternative transit routes.
Authorities emphasised that there is no cause for alarm regarding domestic LPG or LNG supplies. Officials also noted that international crude prices have softened, dropping from around $100 per barrel to nearly $87 per barrel after some countries released strategic reserves. As a result, there will be no immediate increase in retail prices of petrol and diesel, the government said.
Sources further explained that after authorities noticed a surge in LPG pre-bookings, the government issued orders to regulate supply distribution and prioritise essential sectors. Household consumers, fertiliser production units, the tea industry and other critical establishments have been placed at the top of the supply chain.
The regulation has been implemented under provisions of the Essential Commodities Act 1955, which allows the government to control production and distribution of key commodities during emergencies.
Officials said LPG shipments are currently arriving from multiple countries and India is well prepared to handle global energy disruptions. “There was a moment of concern earlier, but the situation is now under control,” a senior government source said.
The government also stated that none of the country’s LPG distributors have run out of stock. According to officials, consumers who book a refill after the mandatory 25-day gap can expect delivery within an average waiting period of about 2.5 days.
To address concerns raised by some commercial users, a three-member committee has been set up with executive directors from the country’s major oil marketing companies, Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation. The panel will engage with hotel and restaurant associations and examine their concerns regarding commercial LPG supply.
Government sources added that many commercial establishments are increasingly using induction-based cooking systems instead of LPG cylinders, which has also helped reduce pressure on supply.
Separately, officials said domestic refineries have increased LPG output by around 10 per cent following earlier government instructions. Monitoring mechanisms for LPG distribution have also been tightened, with the tracking period extended from 21 days to 25 days to prevent hoarding and irregularities.
Authorities clarified that while the government has used provisions of the Essential Commodities Act to regulate supplies, the Essential Services Maintenance Act has not been invoked.
Officials stressed that India remains relatively well positioned compared with many other countries dealing with energy disruptions caused by global conflicts and supply chain pressures. Government agencies and energy companies are also maintaining close coordination with international suppliers to ensure uninterrupted imports.
The government urged citizens not to rely on unverified claims circulating on social media, warning that such information could create unnecessary panic. Officials reiterated that household LPG consumption remains the government’s top priority and that adequate systems are in place to manage the country’s energy demand.
- With inputs from agencies
