Delivery Authentication Code (DAC)-based tracking of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) deliveries has risen to 90 percent from 53 percent in February, as the centre steps up measures to curb diversion and strengthen distribution monitoring amid the evolving supply situation. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) said the expansion of DAC-based delivery authentication is aimed at ensuring LPG cylinders reach intended consumers and to prevent leakages in the system.
The move comes alongside a broader push to strengthen enforcement, with over 50,000 LPG cylinders seized since March, more than 1,400 show-cause notices issued, and 36 distributorships suspended for violations.
At the same time, the government has eased access to 5-kg free trade LPG (FTL) cylinders, allowing purchase without address proof. More than 90,000 such cylinders were sold in a day, taking total sales to around 6.6 lakh since March 23, indicating increased reliance on smaller cylinders to manage demand. The MoPNG also reported a sharp acceleration in Piped Natural Gas (PNG) rollout, with over 3.6 lakh connections gasified and 3.9 lakh new registrations since March, as part of efforts to reduce dependence on LPG.
In the natural gas segment, supply to fertiliser plants is set to increase to around 90 percent of average consumption from April 6, while supply to industrial and commercial consumers will be enhanced by an additional 10 percent. The measures are part of a broader effort by the government to strengthen monitoring and supply management, expand alternatives, and ensure stability in fuel availability amid ongoing geopolitical disruptions.
