The Ministry of Petroleum reassured the public that the supply of domestic LPG cylinders in India remains normal, with over 55 lakh refills delivered recently. Additionally, around 64,000 free trade 5 kg cylinders have been sold, and there have been no reports of dry-outs at LPG distributorships. Online LPG cylinder bookings have surged to 94%, and measures like Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) based deliveries have been enhanced to prevent diversion at the distributor level.
All refineries are functioning at high capacity with ample crude inventories, ensuring sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel. Domestic LPG production from refineries has been boosted to meet local demand, and petrol pumps are operating smoothly nationwide. The government is encouraging consumers to book LPG online and to consider using alternative fuels like PNG and induction/electric cooktops to conserve energy in daily usage.
In response to rumors causing panic buying in some states, resulting in high sales and crowding at retail outlets, the government clarified that there are abundant stocks of petrol and diesel available at all petrol pumps. Raids are being conducted across states and union territories to curb hoarding and black marketing of LPG, with about 2,900 raids and 1,000 seized cylinders reported recently. Public sector oil marketing companies have undertaken surprise inspections at over 1200 RO and LPG distributorships to ensure smooth supplies and combat hoarding or black marketing, issuing approximately 480 show cause notices to date.
Proactive measures are being taken to ensure the uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG nationwide, especially in light of the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The government emphasizes the importance of not believing rumors and advises the public to stay informed and avoid panic buying.
