New Delhi, March 29: Amid disruptions in cooking gas (LPG) supply due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, the Indian government has announced a relaxation of petroleum safety and licensing regulations to expedite kerosene supply. This initiative aims to ensure quicker and easier access to kerosene for households, alleviating the shortage of cooking fuel.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas stated in a notification that the new measures will facilitate the supply of kerosene to homes across 21 states and union territories, enabling its use for cooking and lighting.
Public sector oil companies, including Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum, have been authorized to store and sell kerosene at select petrol pumps. Each designated petrol pump can hold a maximum of 5,000 liters of kerosene, with two pumps allocated per district.
This arrangement has been implemented in 21 states and union territories, including Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat, particularly in areas that were previously ‘kerosene-free.’
The government clarified that this temporary measure will remain in effect for 60 days to address the immediate fuel shortage. In addition to petrol pumps, kerosene will also be distributed through ration shops, with states urged to prioritize rural areas.
The ongoing conflict in West Asia has impacted global energy supplies, leading to a shortage of LNG and a potential LPG deficit. In response, the government has allocated an additional 48,000 kiloliters of kerosene to states, supplementing regular supplies.
Officials indicated that due to reduced LNG availability, kerosene is being reintroduced as a viable fuel option for cooking and lighting in homes.
The ministry assured that despite the relaxed regulations, all safety and monitoring standards will be upheld to prevent misuse of kerosene. To alleviate pressure on LPG supplies, alternative fuels like kerosene and coal are being promoted. The Coal Ministry has directed Coal India and Singareni Collieries Company Limited to increase coal availability to states.
Additionally, states have been advised to expand new PNG connections for domestic and commercial consumers to encourage the use of cleaner fuels.
Leave a Comment