New Delhi: On Friday, the government appealed to the public not to pay heed to rumors and to refrain from panic-buying LPG amidst the ongoing crisis in West Asia.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas also clarified that India currently possesses the capacity to refine 258 million metric tonnes of crude oil, and domestic refineries are operating at their full capacity.
Speaking at an inter-ministerial media briefing regarding the situation arising from the conflict in West Asia, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing and Oil Refineries) at the Ministry, stated, “This has rendered the country self-reliant in the production of petrol and diesel, thereby reducing the need to import these fuels.”
The senior official added, “There is no need for panic-booking; no reports of ‘stock-outs’ have been received from any LPG distributor.”
She noted that the supply of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) to households and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) continued without any interruption. Petrol and diesel were also available in adequate quantities at retail outlets across the country.
The official further remarked, “Given this situation, there is absolutely no need to panic… Furthermore, regarding commercial consumers in our major urban cities and hubs—many of whom are currently facing difficulties due to their reliance on LPG supplies—the Government of India is making every possible effort to address their concerns. We appeal to all such commercial consumers to contact their local CGD (City Gas Distribution) network provider or their designated dealer to obtain a PNG connection.”
Similarly, LPG supplies are also being provided to hospitals and educational institutions. She further added, “As of today, domestic LPG production has increased by 30%; compared to March 5, our refineries are currently producing 30% more LPG.” Regarding commercial cylinders, he stated that, in order to facilitate their distribution on a priority basis, they have been handed over to the state governments.
“We are requesting the state governments to establish priority criteria and ensure that these commercial cylinders effectively reach the consumers for whom they are intended.”
Rajesh Kumar Sinha, a senior official at the Ministry of Shipping, said, “Ships carrying LPG have been accorded priority berthing at major ports.”
With regard to the ongoing crisis and the prevailing situation in the Gulf region, he stated, “Unfortunately—as I reported yesterday—we have received reports of three fatalities involving Indian seafarers. One seafarer remains missing.” Furthermore, four seafarers sustained minor injuries; however, all those who were injured have been evacuated and are currently receiving medical treatment… The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is closely monitoring the prevailing maritime situation in the Persian Gulf region, which remains constantly evolving.
Delhi No need for panic buying of LPG: Government
