New Delhi, Mar 17: The Centre on Monday assured that fuel supplies across the country remain stable despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, even as around 2.2 lakh passengers have returned to India from the Gulf region since February 28.
The update was shared during an inter-ministerial media briefing at the National Media Centre, involving the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ministry of External Affairs, and Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
Fuel Supplies Stable, No Panic Buying Needed
Addressing concerns arising from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, the government said all refineries are operating at high capacity and India remains self-sufficient in petrol and diesel production.
“No fuel dry-outs have been reported,” officials said, urging citizens not to resort to panic buying as adequate stocks of petrol, diesel, and LPG are available nationwide.
Domestic LPG production has been ramped up by 36 percent, while online LPG bookings have risen from about 84 percent to 90 percent, reflecting increased adoption of digital platforms.
Push for PNG Connections
To ease pressure on LPG demand, consumers—especially commercial establishments—are being encouraged to shift to piped natural gas (PNG). City Gas Distribution companies are offering incentives, including free gas and waivers on registration and security deposits.
The government has also expanded Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) coverage to curb diversion of LPG cylinders.
States Crack Down on Hoarding
State governments and Union Territories have stepped up enforcement measures to prevent hoarding and black marketing of fuel. Raids and inspections are underway in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Assam, among others.
More than 1,100 inspections have been conducted at fuel retail outlets and LPG distributorships by oil marketing companies to ensure smooth supply.
LPG Supply Under Watch
The government said LPG supplies continue to be closely monitored. Booking intervals have been revised to ensure equitable distribution, and alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal are being made available to reduce demand pressure.
Consumers with PNG connections have been directed to surrender LPG connections under revised norms.
Shipping and Maritime Operations
Providing an update on maritime activity, officials said all Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf region are safe. Two Indian LPG carriers that recently crossed the Strait of Hormuz are expected to dock shortly—Shivalik is scheduled to berth at Mundra Port on Monday, while Nanda Devi is expected to arrive on Tuesday.
Ports across India are operating normally, with no congestion reported. Authorities are coordinating closely to facilitate cargo movement and support shipping operations.
Indian Nationals in West Asia
The Ministry of External Affairs said Indian missions in the region remain fully operational, including the Embassy in Tehran.
Over 550 Indian nationals in Iran have been evacuated to Armenia, while others have crossed into Azerbaijan. Additional relocation efforts are ongoing within Iran.
Flights are gradually resuming in parts of the Gulf, including operations from Dubai International Airport, with more than 45 flights expected to operate to India on Monday.
Authorities also confirmed that Indian missions are providing 24×7 assistance through helplines, coordinating evacuations, and supporting stranded nationals across the region.
Government Monitoring Situation
The Centre reiterated that it is closely monitoring developments in West Asia and coordinating across ministries to ensure energy security, safe evacuation of citizens, and uninterrupted trade and logistics.
Citizens have been advised to rely on official information sources and avoid panic, as the government continues to take measures to safeguard essential supplies and national interests.
