Fuel crisis fears? Govt says no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG in India amid West Asia tensions
PTC Wed Desk: Amid growing concerns over the escalating tensions in West Asia, the Central Government on Monday assured citizens that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, LPG or crude oil in the country.
During an inter-ministerial media briefing, officials from the Petroleum Ministry said India currently has adequate fuel reserves and there is no reason for people to panic or indulge in unnecessary fuel buying.
A senior official from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said the country has sufficient stocks of crude oil, petrol, diesel and cooking gas to meet domestic demand. The government, she said, has already taken precautionary measures to reduce the impact of the ongoing conflict in the region.
Officials acknowledged that nearly 90 per cent of India’s energy imports pass through the affected West Asia region, but stressed that supply chains remain stable at present.
Clarifying Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal asking citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and conserve fuel, the government said the message was aimed at encouraging responsible energy use during uncertain global conditions and should not be interpreted as a warning about shortages.
“There is absolutely no shortage of fuel supplies in the country,” the official said, adding that the government is continuously monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to ensure uninterrupted availability.
The Ministry of External Affairs also said India is diversifying its energy sourcing strategy by purchasing fuel from multiple countries to minimise risks linked to geopolitical tensions.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has consistently supported peace and dialogue in West Asia and remains closely engaged with developments in the region.
Meanwhile, officials from the Ministry of Ports and Shipping said 10 Indian-flagged ships have safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz without facing extra charges or disruptions. Another 13 Indian vessels are still operating in the region and efforts are underway to ensure their safe return.
The government also said that the safety and welfare of Indian crew members onboard these ships are being monitored on a daily basis.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm, saying India’s fuel supply situation continues to remain stable despite global uncertainty.
- With inputs from agencies
