New Delhi, April 4: The Government of India on Saturday said it has taken extensive measures to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply and safeguard key sectors amid the evolving situation in West Asia, even as disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz continue to impact global energy flows.
In an official update, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas outlined steps taken to maintain availability of LPG, petrol, diesel and natural gas, while also highlighting progress in maritime safety and assistance to Indian nationals in the region.
LPG supply stable, small cylinders in high demand
The government said there is no shortage of LPG across the country, with around 51 lakh domestic cylinders delivered in a single day. To improve accessibility, 5 kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders are being made widely available at distributors on valid ID without the need for address proof.
More than 71,000 such cylinders were sold on Friday alone, while total sales have crossed 5.7 lakh units since March 23.
Authorities noted a sharp increase in digital LPG bookings, which reached 95 percent, alongside enhanced delivery authentication measures to prevent diversion.
Crackdown on hoarding, black marketing
Amid reports of panic buying, enforcement agencies have intensified action against hoarding and black marketing. Over 3,700 raids were conducted across states and Union Territories in a single day.
Public sector oil marketing companies have issued around 1,000 show-cause notices to distributors, with 27 LPG distributorships suspended so far.
The Centre has urged states to maintain strict vigilance under the Essential Commodities Act and conduct daily monitoring and public briefings to counter misinformation.
Push for alternative fuels, PNG expansion
To reduce pressure on LPG demand, the government is promoting alternative cooking fuels such as piped natural gas (PNG), kerosene, and electric appliances.
Since March 2026, more than 3.5 lakh new PNG connections have been activated, with an additional 3.8 lakh consumers registered. City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies have been directed to prioritise connections for households, restaurants and institutions.
Officials said incentives are being offered to accelerate PNG adoption, while regulatory measures have been introduced to fast-track pipeline infrastructure expansion.
Gas supply to fertiliser plants to rise
In a key development, gas supply to fertiliser plants is set to increase to around 90 percent of their average six-month consumption from April 6, up from the current 70–75 percent levels.
Supply to industrial and commercial sectors will also be enhanced by an additional 10 percent, ensuring continuity in critical sectors.
Adequate fuel stocks, price measures announced
The government said all refineries are operating at high capacity with sufficient crude inventories, ensuring adequate stocks of petrol and diesel across the country.
To shield consumers from rising global crude prices, the Centre has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre. At the same time, export levies have been imposed on diesel and aviation turbine fuel to maintain domestic availability.
Authorities reiterated that there is no need for panic buying and urged citizens to rely only on official information.
Maritime operations continue smoothly
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways confirmed that shipping operations remain stable despite regional tensions.
LPG vessel Green Sanvi successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz carrying 46,650 metric tonnes of LPG, with all crew members safe.
A total of 17 Indian-flagged vessels with 460 Indian seafarers remain in the western Persian Gulf region, with authorities closely monitoring their safety.
So far, over 1,320 Indian seafarers have been repatriated, including 190 in the past 24 hours.
Support to Indian nationals abroad
The Ministry of External Affairs said Indian missions across West Asia are operating round-the-clock helplines and providing assistance to citizens, including students, workers and seafarers.
Efforts are underway to facilitate travel amid airspace restrictions, with alternative routes arranged through neighbouring countries. Since February 28, around 6.75 lakh passengers have travelled from the region to India.
The government also confirmed that Indian fishermen stranded in Iran are being repatriated, while assistance continues for nationals affected by recent incidents in the region.
Advisory to citizens
The government has urged citizens to conserve energy, avoid unnecessary LPG bookings and refrain from panic purchasing of fuel.
States and Union Territories have been directed to strengthen communication systems, establish control rooms, and actively counter misinformation to ensure public confidence.
Officials said the coordinated measures reflect a comprehensive approach to maintaining energy security, protecting citizens and ensuring economic stability amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.
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