Piped Gas Connection Holders Must Surrender LPG Cylinders Amid Supply Disruptions, Warns Government
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued a directive stating that individuals with piped gas connections will no longer be permitted to refill LPG cylinders. This decision comes as the supply of natural gas has been affected due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, specifically the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Under the new amendment, those holding both Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and domestic LPG connections are required to surrender their domestic LPG connections immediately.
Centre Reaffirms India Has No Shortage of Fuel
This amendment has been introduced amidst rising concerns regarding fuel supply due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The Union Petroleum Ministry has assured that India possesses adequate crude oil supplies and that refineries across the nation are functioning at full capacity, with no reports of fuel shortages at retail outlets.
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery) at the Ministry, confirmed that there is sufficient availability of petrol and diesel in the country, negating the need for imports. She stated, “As far as crude oil and refineries are concerned, we have a sufficient supply of crude and our refineries are operating at full capacity. There have been no reports of any dry-out at retail outlets. Adequate petrol and diesel are available.”
Sharma emphasized that domestic production is meeting the nation’s requirements, asserting, “We produce enough petrol and diesel in the country according to our requirements, and therefore there is no need for us to import them.”
Natural Gas Status in India As of March 14
Regarding natural gas, the government is encouraging commercial consumers facing disruptions in LPG supply to transition to piped natural gas (PNG) connections. The Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) has been in discussions with several City Gas Distribution (CGD) operators to expedite the provision of PNG connections to commercial consumers.
While there is currently no immediate shortage of LPG, Sharma noted that the supply situation remains concerning due to ongoing geopolitical developments. She remarked, “Regarding LPG supply, I would like to say that it is still a matter of concern for us in view of the prevailing geopolitical situation. However, no dry-out has been reported.”
Government Advises Against Panic Bookings
The Ministry has expressed alarm over a significant increase in LPG bookings, which are being characterized as panic-driven. Sharma reported that bookings have surged from approximately 7.5-7.6 million to nearly 8.8 million in a short span. She urged the public to refrain from unnecessary bookings, stating, “I would like to appeal to the citizens of the country to avoid panic booking and to make bookings only when there is an actual need. This will be good for everyone.”
Government To Ensure Supply of Commercial Cylinders
In response to the situation, the government has committed to ensuring the supply of commercial LPG cylinders. Following discussions with state governments, it was decided that some LPG should also be allocated to commercial consumers. Sharma indicated that distribution of commercial cylinders has commenced in around 29 states and union territories.
Highlighting advancements in digital services, Sharma noted that a significant portion of LPG bookings is now conducted online, with the current rate at approximately 84%. She expressed the goal of increasing this figure to nearly 100%.
To combat black marketing and hoarding of LPG cylinders, the government has intensified enforcement actions. Continuous raids and surprise inspections are being conducted to address these issues. Sharma detailed that joint teams comprising state officials and oil marketing companies have been formed to carry out inspections and raids.
She provided examples of enforcement actions, stating, “For instance, in Maharashtra and Rajasthan, joint teams carried out surprise inspections and raids. Furthermore, in Uttar Pradesh as well, surprise inspections were conducted at approximately 1,400 locations.”
Strict measures have been implemented, with around 20 FIRs filed, multiple individuals detained, and prosecution proceedings initiated against approximately 19 people. Similar enforcement actions have also taken place in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, and Karnataka.
Additionally, the government is implementing measures to assist businesses facing fuel supply challenges in the National Capital Region. The Commission for Air Quality Management has issued a directive allowing the temporary use of biomass-derived pellets, specifically Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) pellets, as a substitute for natural gas by industries, hotels, and restaurants within the NCR for a month.
As reported by www.timesnownews.com.
Published on 2026-03-14 18:31:00 • By Editorial Desk
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