LPG Supply Remains Steady Amid West Asia Crisis, Government Takes Action Against Black Marketing

by

Ganpat Singh Chouhan

LPG Supply Remains Steady Amid West Asia Crisis, Government Takes Action Against Black Marketing

New Delhi, April 15: Amid ongoing tensions in West Asia, the central government has provided a significant update regarding the supply of petroleum products and LPG in the country. The government is taking all possible measures to ensure a smooth supply.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas announced on Wednesday that over 34,200 PNG consumers have surrendered their LPG connections through the myPNG.in portal, indicating a shift towards alternative fuels. To combat black marketing and hoarding, strict actions are underway, with over 2,100 raids conducted recently, resulting in the seizure of approximately 450 cylinders.

According to the government, despite the current geopolitical situation, 100% supply of domestic LPG, PNG, and CNG (for transport) is being ensured. The supply of commercial LPG is prioritized for hospitals, educational institutions, and essential industries. Additionally, the supply of 5 kg small cylinders for migrant workers has also been increased.

Moreover, steps have been taken to boost refinery production, extend booking intervals, and enhance the availability of alternative fuels like kerosene and coal.

States and Union Territories have been granted more authority to monitor LPG supply and take action against hoarding. Control rooms and monitoring committees have been established in all states, with regular press briefings being conducted in several regions. Public sector oil companies have intensified inspections, resulting in actions against hundreds of distributors.

The government reported that online bookings for LPG have reached approximately 98%, with DAC-based delivery increasing to 93%, enhancing transparency. The delivery of domestic gas cylinders continues to be normal.

In the natural gas sector, the government has taken significant steps. Gas allocation for fertilizer plants has been increased to nearly 95%, while other industrial sectors are also receiving more supply. Companies like IGL, MGL, GAIL, and BPCL are incentivizing the increase of PNG connections. Since March 2026, around 450,000 new PNG connections have been activated, with over 500,000 applications for new connections received.

The statement further noted that all refineries are operating at high capacity, and there is a sufficient stock of petrol and diesel. LPG production has also been ramped up to meet domestic needs. Additionally, the government has made special arrangements to ensure the supply of raw materials for the petrochemical sector.

On the maritime security front, the government remains vigilant. The DG Shipping control room has handled 6,449 calls and over 13,443 cases so far. A total of 2,337 Indian sailors have been safely brought back. The government confirmed that all Indian sailors in the region are safe, and no incidents involving Indian vessels have occurred.

The government also stated that the Indian embassy is in constant contact with the Indian community and providing assistance through a 24-hour helpline. So far, approximately 984,000 people have returned to India from the region. Thousands of Indians have also been safely evacuated from Iran and brought back to India through other countries.

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