The Centre has stepped up domestic LPG production and activated priority allocation for natural gas to maintain fuel supplies as disruptions linked to the conflict in West Asia affect global energy markets.
At an inter-ministerial briefing on Thursday, senior officials from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said measures were being taken to ensure uninterrupted energy supplies, safeguard maritime operations and support Indian nationals in the region.
Officials said refineries have been directed to maximise Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) production under a control order issued on March 9, resulting in a 28 percent increase in output over the past five days.
India imports around 60 percent of its LPG requirement, much of it from Gulf countries, and authorities are working to secure additional cargoes and diversify supplies as shipping routes in the region face disruptions.
More than 50 lakh LPG cylinders are currently being delivered daily through the country’s distribution network, officials said.
The government has also issued a Natural Gas Control Order under the Essential Commodities Act to prioritise supply to households and essential sectors.
Under the order, piped natural gas supplied to homes and compressed natural gas used by vehicles will receive full supply, while industrial consumers will receive up to 80 percent of their previous six-month average allocation. Fertiliser plants will receive up to 70 percent of their usual supply.
To prevent hoarding and diversion of commercial LPG cylinders, the government has also introduced supply controls. Officials said 20 percent of the average monthly commercial LPG requirement will be allocated through oil marketing companies in coordination with state governments.
A committee comprising executives from Indian Oil Corporation Ltd, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd has been set up to review allocations for restaurants, hotels and other commercial users.
Officials also urged citizens to avoid panic booking of LPG cylinders and refrain from spreading misinformation regarding fuel availability, adding that retail outlets across the country remain operational with adequate stocks.
