New Delhi, March 22: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has confirmed that domestic LPG cylinder deliveries remain stable, with panic bookings declining, even as global supply concerns persist due to tensions in West Asia.
To manage demand, the government has increased commercial LPG allocation to states, prioritising critical sectors such as educational institutions and hospitals, which now account for nearly 50% of total allocation. An additional 20% has been earmarked for high-consumption segments including restaurants, dhabas, hotels, industrial canteens, food processing units, and dairy operations.
Amid concerns over global shipping disruptions, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, the government said all refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories. Domestic LPG production has also been maximised, alongside sufficient availability of petrol and diesel nationwide.
Authorities have reported no instances of fuel shortages at retail outlets operated by oil marketing companies, urging citizens to avoid panic buying. Enforcement actions, including raids across states and Union Territories, are ongoing to curb hoarding and black marketing of LPG.
On the natural gas front, priority sectors continue to receive full supply, with 100% allocation maintained for domestic PNG connections and CNG for transport. Industrial and commercial consumers are currently receiving around 80% of their average gas consumption.
The government has also directed city gas distribution (CGD) companies such as Indraprastha Gas Limited, Mahanagar Gas Limited, GAIL Gas Limited, and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited to prioritise new PNG connections for both domestic and commercial users. Incentives are being offered to accelerate adoption, while timelines for connection approvals have been shortened under the oversight of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board.
Additionally, states and Union Territories have been urged to fast-track approvals required for expanding CGD networks, supporting a broader shift towards piped gas solutions.
The measures reflect the government’s proactive approach to maintaining energy security and supply stability amid evolving geopolitical uncertainties.
