New Delhi, March 28: The government has intensified its efforts to ensure a smooth supply of gas, issuing over 350 show-cause notices to LPG distributors across the country.
On Friday, officials reported that ongoing actions in states and union territories have led to more than 3,000 raids, resulting in the seizure of over 1,500 LPG cylinders.
State-run oil marketing companies (OMCs) have also conducted surprise inspections at more than 1,500 retail outlets and LPG distributors nationwide. This information was shared following an inter-ministerial meeting concerning the situation in West Asia.
The government emphasized its commitment to prioritizing the supply of domestic LPG and PNG, particularly for essential sectors like hospitals and educational institutions. To facilitate this, refineries have increased production, adjusted booking intervals, and are distributing supplies on a priority basis.
The statement advised states to assist in providing new PNG connections for both domestic and commercial consumers.
Officials assured that all necessary measures are being taken to guarantee the availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG. Citizens were urged not to panic-buy and to rely solely on official information, avoiding rumors.
Additionally, the government encouraged the use of alternative fuels such as PNG, electric, or induction cooktops, appealing for energy conservation in daily life.
It was also noted that all refineries are operating at full capacity, with sufficient crude oil reserves to ensure an uninterrupted supply of petrol and diesel. LPG production has been increased by up to 40% to meet domestic demand.
Earlier in the day, in response to rising crude oil prices due to the Middle East crisis, the government reduced the excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per liter to provide relief to consumers.
Furthermore, an export duty of ₹21.5 per liter on diesel and ₹29.5 per liter on aviation turbine fuel (ATF) has been imposed to maintain adequate domestic availability.
Domestic refineries have also been instructed to ensure that 50% of exported petrol and 30% of exported diesel is made available in the domestic market to prevent fuel shortages in the country.
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