New Delhi: Amidst disruptions to energy supplies caused by the crisis in West Asia, the government stated on Friday that an uninterrupted supply of LPG for households has been ensured, and there is no need for panic booking of gas cylinders.
Briefing the media, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, stated that domestic LPG production has witnessed a 30 percent increase compared to March 5, thereby ensuring an uninterrupted supply to households.
Sharma remarked, “There is no need for panic booking, and there has been no shortage at any LPG dealership.” She added that LPG bookings have risen to 75.7 lakh, whereas the average prior to the conflict stood at 55.7 lakh. “This surge reflects the ‘panic booking’ being undertaken by the public.”
The conflict in West Asia has impacted the supply of crude oil and petroleum products. Following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a narrow waterway situated between Iran and Oman—this route has emerged as one of the world’s most critical energy transit corridors.
This 50-mile-long, narrow passage, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, carries approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).
India imports roughly 88 percent of its crude oil requirements, 50 percent of its LNG needs, and 60 percent of its LPG requirements—the bulk of which transits through this very route.
Due to the escalating conflict in West Asia—which began on February 28 when the U.S. and Israel launched attacks on Iran, followed by retaliatory strikes from Tehran—the import of petroleum products through this Strait has come to a halt.
**No Mercy for Black Marketeers**
Whenever such a situation arises, certain individuals attempt to exploit it for personal gain. The government has geared up to curb black marketing and hoarding. State administrations have been directed to maintain strict vigilance at the local level. Furthermore, the staff strength and seating capacity at oil companies’ call centers have been increased to ensure the prompt resolution of every consumer complaint and query.
The government has issued three very simple appeals to the general public:
Do not panic, and refrain from panic buying.
Book LPG cylinders strictly according to your actual requirements.
Disregard all rumors and rely solely on official information.
