Inter-Ministerial Briefing Assures Fuel Stability Amid West Asia Tensions; Crackdown on LPG Hoarding Intensifies
In a major enforcement drive, authorities have conducted over 12,000 raids nationwide, leading to the seizure of more than 15,000 LPG cylinders
The Government of India on Tuesday reassured citizens of uninterrupted fuel availability, even as tensions in West Asia continue to evolve, with a strong crackdown on LPG hoarding and black marketing underway across the country.
At an inter-ministerial media briefing held at the National Media Centre, officials from the Ministries of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and External Affairs provided a comprehensive update on energy supplies, maritime operations, and the safety of Indian nationals abroad.
Massive Crackdown on LPG Hoarding
In a major enforcement drive, authorities have conducted over 12,000 raids nationwide, leading to the seizure of more than 15,000 LPG cylinders. The action, carried out under the Essential Commodities Act, targeted black marketing and illegal hoarding across states including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
Additionally, PSU Oil Marketing Companies have undertaken over 2,500 surprise inspections to ensure supply chain integrity.
Fuel Supplies Stable, No Shortages Reported
The government emphasized that:
- All refineries are operating at high capacity
- India remains self-sufficient in petrol and diesel
- No fuel dry-outs reported at retail outlets
- LPG supply remains steady with 38% increase in domestic production
Citizens have been urged to avoid panic buying, as adequate stocks are available.
Push for PNG to Reduce LPG Pressure
To ease pressure on LPG supplies:
- Commercial consumers in urban areas are being encouraged to switch to Piped Natural Gas (PNG)
- CGD companies like IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas, and BPCL are offering incentives
- States and UTs have been asked to fast-track approvals for CGD pipeline infrastructure
Consumers using PNG have also been advised to surrender LPG connections following recent regulatory changes.
Digital Push: 94% LPG Bookings Now Online
The government highlighted a significant shift toward digital adoption:
- 94% of LPG bookings are now made online
- Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) coverage increased to 76%
- Citizens are encouraged to use IVRS, SMS, WhatsApp, and apps for booking
Maritime Operations and Fuel Shipments
India’s maritime logistics remain stable despite regional tensions:
- LPG carrier Shivalik has reached Mundra Port
- Nanda Devi arrived at Kandla and has begun cargo discharge
- Indian ports are ensuring priority berthing and fast unloading
No incidents involving Indian seafarers have been reported, and all remain safe.
Indian Nationals in West Asia: Continuous Support
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed:
- Over 700 Indians evacuated via Armenia and Azerbaijan
- Around 130 pilgrims expected to reach Delhi today
- More than 2.44 lakh passengers have returned to India since February 28
Indian missions across the region are operating 24×7 helplines and providing assistance to stranded nationals.
Advisory to Citizens
The government reiterated:
- Avoid panic bookings and hoarding
- Use digital platforms for LPG services
- Consider alternate fuels like PNG and electric cooking
- Rely only on official information sources
